In a bid to revolutionize agriculture and empower farmers in his constituency, Hon.Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo (AVM Rtd), Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I at the National Assembly, Abuja has embarked on agricultural empowerment project.
The initiative, which commenced about four months ago after a two -day training for selected farmers from his constituents in Ikere, has birthed an empowerment farm at Ogbese for farmers from Ikere and Ise/Orun, focusing on tomato plantation.
The farm project is now being expanded to Ogotun, with a 20 hectares of land donated by Ologotun of Ogotun for farmers from Ekiti South West.
Speaking on the commencement of the Ogotun farm, Ojuawo said the process is still ongoing as planned.
“‘Like I mentioned to you during the commencement of the Ogbese farm, I said the Ogotun farm will begin shortly. We’ll start harvesting here in a couple of days to come. 20 hectares of land have been donated by Ologotun of Ogotun Ekiti for the project, and work has begun at the farm.
“Currently, we are doing the nursery here at the Ogbese farm and will move them to the farm later.’
Statement by his Media Team reveals that the Ogotun empowerment farm cluster which will accommodate 22 farmers is set to commence with a 5 hectares of land as pilot scheme, that focuses on pepper cultivation, specifically the Atarodo and Shombo varieties. “This strategic move is aimed at capitalizing on the region’s fertile soil and favourable climate, creating a sustainable agricultural hub that will benefit local farmers and boost the local economy”.
Hon. Ojuawo’s vision is to empower farmers with modern agricultural techniques, improve crop yields, and enhance their socio-economic well-being by providing access to arable land, inputs, and expertise. This initiative seeks to transform agriculture in Ekiti South Federal Constituency into a thriving sector that will encourage even young graduates to join the agro-economy sector.
The Ogotun empowerment farm is poised to become a model for agricultural development in the area, showcasing the potential for collaborative efforts between government, community leaders, and farmers to drive growth and share the prosperity agenda of the current administration.