James Sowole in Abeokuta
The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, at the weekend said the Anchor Borrowers Scheme in the state has nurtured over 40,000 agripreneurs.
The governor who spoke in Abeokuta during the 37th Lisabi Day celebration, reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting young farmers and investors in land clearing, preparation, and mechanisation for agriculture.
Represented by his Deputy, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun emphasised that the theme of the celebration, ‘’Encouraging Youth Entrepreneurship in Agric Business: Panacea for Solving Youth Unemployment in Egbaland,’’ aligned with his commitment to empowering youths for agricultural growth.
Abiodun called for intensified efforts in agriculture and allied businesses, focusing on youth development, even as he highlighted the pivotal role of agriculture in the state’s economic roadmap, contributing to food security, job creation, and industrialisation.
He said: “Ogun state remains a major global producer of cassava, with strengths in cassava production, poultry farming, fish production, and animal husbandry.”
Abiodun underscored the government’s interest in boosting the agricultural value chain, encouraging private sector investment for sustained industrialisation, job creation and food security.
While urging elders to instil core values in the youth, he emphasised the importance of hard work, perseverance, and diligence.
The Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo acknowledged the success of the Lisabi Festival, thanking Egba sons and daughters for their financial support.
He announced plans to empower Egba indigenes through Lisabi palliatives and educational support for students.
Applauding Abiodun for the modern Adire market at Asero, Gbadebo encouraged youths to explore Adire making and selling, emphasising the simultaneous importance of preserving the agricultural legacy of Egbaland.
A former military administrator of Bauchi and Sokoto states, Navy Capt. Rasheed Raji, emphasised the festival’s purpose to shift youth focus from white-collar jobs to sustainable occupations like agriculture.
He appealed to Abiodun to support youths in achieving self-sustaining agricultural businesses through the state ministry of agriculture.
