The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to agricultural transformation with the commissioning of key infrastructure projects under the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in Ijebu North East Local Government Area.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony , the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security in Ogun state, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, described the projects as a strategic investments aimed at strengthening the agricultural value chain, improving food security, stimulating rural development, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and processors across the State.
The projects commissioned include six solar-powered boreholes located at Iworo, Oke-Eri, Gbawojo, Ododeyo 1 and 2, Imewuro, and Isonyin; an Open Stalls Market at Iworo; and a Cassava Processing Centre also at Iworo.
According to the Commissioner, the interventions were carefully designed to address critical gaps in agricultural production and processing while promoting sustainable economic growth in rural communities.
He noted that the Cassava Processing Centre would improve value addition by providing farmers and processors with modern processing facilities capable of increasing efficiency, enhancing product quality, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting income generation.
Hon. Owotomo further stated that the solar-powered boreholes would provide sustainable access to clean water for both domestic and processing purposes, thereby improving hygiene, supporting agro-processing activities, and promoting environmental sustainability. He added that the Open Stalls Market would create a conducive trading environment, improve access to markets, stimulate local commerce, and encourage greater participation of women and youths in agribusiness.
The Commissioner attributed the successful execution of the projects to the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment of the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, whose administration continues to prioritize agriculture as a major driver of economic diversification, food security, job creation, and inclusive development.
He also commended the Ijebu North East Local Government administration for its cooperation, coordination, and support throughout the implementation of the projects, describing the council’s role in community mobilization and ownership as instrumental to their successful delivery.
Hon. Owotomo equally appreciated beneficiary farmers, processors, community members, development partners, programme coordinators, extension officers, and other stakeholders for their commitment and active participation in ensuring the success of the interventions.
He urged the beneficiaries and host communities to take full ownership of the facilities by ensuring proper utilization, routine maintenance, and collective responsibility to guarantee their sustainability and long-term benefits.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Ogun State Government’s determination to continue investing in agriculture as a pathway to food security, wealth creation, rural transformation, and improved living standards for the people of the State.
The commissioning of the projects marks another significant milestone in the implementation of the Value Chain Development Programme in Ogun State, underscoring the government’s resolve to build resilient agricultural value chains and empower farming communities through sustainable infrastructure and inclusive agricultural development.
Hon Folusho Badejo, the Chairman of Ijebu North East local government expressed appreciation to the Gov of the state, Prince Dapo Abiodun and Hon Bolu Owotomo for deeming it to execute the projects for the betterment of the entire farmers in the area.
He however promised to serve as a shield for the entire facilities, stressing that all farmers, market men and women in the area would be happy at the new development.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Oliworo of Iworo Ijebu, Oba Gabriel Onafuwa thanked Gov Dapo Abiodun for the commissioning of rural roads, and other amenities extended to the LG.
The traditional ruler also expressed appreciation to Hon Bolu Owotomo for his exemplary performance, which has led to the provision of social amenities to the LG. He urged the people to reciprocate the kind gesture by supporting the APC led administration in the state.
