By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has received the report of the Food Security Committee to address various aspects of food security in the state.
Adeleke, who described food security as the most pressing issue facing the nation, noted that immediate action will be taken to implement the recommendations of the Committee.
He said, “I am directing the setting up of an implementation Committee under my Special Adviser on Agriculture. The committee whose members will be made public on Monday must ensure immediate actions are taken on the recommendations.
“We cannot wait any longer. The issue of affordability and availability of food to our people cannot be treated with levity. We must support our people to survive this high inflation and emerging food insecurity,” the Governor said while receiving the report.
However, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon Tola Faseru who chaired the Committee said the report considered the pressing challenges of food security to make far reaching recommendations.
Faseru said the Committee had recommended a series of solutions to address food security challenges which are divided into short, medium and long term agenda.
“On farm security, the Committee recommended the establishment of Farm Security Network comprising personnel from various security Agencies including Traditional leaders; integration of the services of local vigilantes and hunters; immediate education and training on farm security and pest control for farmers; strengthen collaboration between local and official security forces with knowledge of the region for farm protection; orientation programme for Fulani and Farmers; introduction of border poisoning plants; introduction of physical measures to protect farm borders; launching of Community Based Security Intelligence Program and passing into law of Anti-Open Grazing bill.
“On expanding farm activities, the Committee recommended provision of farm equipment through public-private partnership (PPP); establishment of a farm equipment leasing scheme for immediate access to tools at a subsidised fee; renewal of the memorandum of understanding with Leventis Foundation; ensure immediate continuation of annual training programs for Osun youths in Agriculture and Agribusiness; supply of farm implements through structured farm groups including Women in Agriculture; facilitate the immediate supply of tools and inputs to farmers through organised groups; mass mobilisation of citizens on home farming; implement long-term incentive programs such as subsidised seed and tool distribution, and tractor availability for sustained agricultural growth.”