Ikorodu federal lawmaker, Rep. Babajimi Benson MHR took a major step to bolster the agricultural sector by distributing 50kg bags of fertilizer to local farmers.
Focused on improving agricultural productivity, the initiative supplied essential resources to 600 residents of Ikorodu Division.
The distribution event, which took place at his constituency office on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, was part of a broader effort spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu to bolster the nation’s agricultural sector.
Drawing residents from various parts of the Ikorodu Division—including Ikorodu Local Government Area, Ikorodu North LCDA, Imota LCDA, Ijede LCDA, Ikorodu West LCDA, and Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA—the event ensured that farmers from different localities benefited from the program.
The support scheme demonstrated a commitment by the government to aid farmers and advance food security within the community.
Expected to markedly increase agricultural output, the distribution of 600 bags of fertilizer has offered vital support and relief to local farmers, designed to enhance farming practices and encourage sustainable development in rural areas.
Hon. Muyideen Yusuf, Supervisor for Agriculture and Chieftaincy Affairs of Ikorodu West LCDA, extended appreciation to the Federal Government and Hon. Babajimi Benson for their essential contribution to facilitating the distribution of free fertilizer to local farmers.
Speaking to Ikorodu News Network (INN), Hon. Yusuf detailed the transformative effects of the initiative, describing the provision of free fertilizer as a key empowerment tool for local farmers.
“The distribution of free fertilizer goes beyond mere support; it is a means of empowerment that will significantly boost agricultural productivity,” he said.
“This initiative will help crops grow more effectively, resulting in better yields and a stronger agricultural output for our community.”
Hon. Yusuf also urged the beneficiaries to use the fertilizer wisely. He emphasized that the entire community stands to gain from the increased productivity.
“I encourage all recipients to make the most of this fertilizer. The benefits of your hard work and enhanced crop yields will be shared by our whole community,” he added.
Asiwaju Wale Ogunbela, the Supervisor for Agriculture and Rural Development in Ikorodu North LCDA, praised Rep. Babajimi Benson’s initiative as groundbreaking, aiming to stabilize food supplies within the community.
Ogunbela emphasized the initiative’s importance, describing it as a “positive development” that will motivate local farmers to enhance their crop cultivation and manage their produce more effectively.
The project is anticipated to improve food security and support the agricultural sector, which is crucial to the local economy.
“This project will not only stabilize food availability but also encourage our farmers to refine their practices,” Ogunbela said. “It is a strategic step that will ensure our produce is of high quality and well-managed.”
He urged farmers to make full use of the resources and support provided by the initiative. Stressing the vital role farmers play in the community’s food supply, Ogunbela encouraged them to boost their productivity to prevent future shortages.
“I urge our farmers to fully utilize the resources offered through this initiative,” Ogunbela added.
“Increasing productivity will help prevent food shortages and ensure a stable food supply for our community.”
Mr. Ojuoluwa Abbas, a beneficiary of the program, expressed gratitude and talked about the significant impact of fertilizer on the local farming community.
“This support is crucial for us, especially given the declining soil quality in Ikorodu. With this fertilizer, we are hopeful that our crops will thrive, as we have been struggling,” he said.
Mr. Abbas explained the critical issue of poor soil fertility, which has hampered plant germination and growth, leading to subpar yields.
“The poor fertility of the land has affected the germination and growth of our crops, resulting in poor harvests. However, this fertilizer is expected to bring about positive changes,” he explained.
He also took the opportunity to motivate his fellow farmers, encouraging them to persevere with renewed determination. “I urge all farmers to stay hopeful and continue their efforts. Our community depends on our productivity to ensure a steady food supply,” he said.
Mr. Abbas emphasized the potential for nationwide agricultural improvement if more leaders emulate MHR Benson’s example.
“If other leaders distribute resources like Honourable Babajimi Benson, it will significantly boost the success of farmers across the country. Our motto is, ‘Great farmers, great nation; no farmers, no food; no food, no nation,'” he concluded.
Chief Noah Anjorin, the esteemed Baale of Abule Eko in Ijede Local Council Development Area (LCDA), expressed his gratitude for Rep. Benson’s dedicated efforts to improve the well-being of Ikorodu Division residents.
Chief Anjorin specifically praised Rep. Benson, the agricultural initiative, has delivered crucial support to local farmers.
“As a farmer with 10 hectares of land, I was worried about how to afford fertilizer for my crops. This 50kg of fertilizer is a significant relief,” he remarked.
He also detailed the wider benefits of such initiatives, noting that they not only assist individual farmers but also enhance the overall prosperity of Ikorodu Division by fostering self-sufficiency and economic growth.
“I appreciate Rep. Benson for including me among the beneficiaries and for his consistent support. His efforts continue to inspire confidence and hope in our community,” he concluded.
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