Yusuf Ganiyu
– The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has officially commenced the harvest of 200 hectares of rice at the Magboro Rice Farm in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area. The initiative marks a significant milestone in the state’s agricultural sector, positioning Ogun alongside states like Lagos, Kebbi, and Bayelsa in the production of locally grown rice.
During the flag-off ceremony, Governor Abiodun emphasized that this project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to eradicating poverty and hunger by ensuring affordable food for all Nigerians. He highlighted that the rice farm will not only boost rice production but also address challenges in animal husbandry, further contributing to the state’s economic development.
The Magboro Rice Farm is part of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, which is supported by the World Bank. The project aims to drive economic growth and enhance the livelihoods of the people within the state. Governor Abiodun noted that the farm, with a yield of seven metric tons per hectare, is expected to produce around 1,400 metric tons of milled rice from the 200 hectares. With an efficiency yield of approximately 70%, this translates to about 20,000 bags of milled rice per harvest cycle.
Governor Abiodun also stressed that agriculture remains a critical agenda of his administration, providing employment and raw materials to the numerous industries in Ogun State. He lauded the state’s abundant manpower and natural resources, which are pivotal to the success of agricultural projects like the Magboro Rice Farm.
Hon. Bolu Owotomo, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, reaffirmed that the project is in line with the agricultural policies of the Abiodun administration, which focus on achieving food sufficiency for Ogun State.
Project Coordinator Mrs. Mosun Owo-Odunsi expressed her appreciation to the governor for his unwavering support, noting that the project is poised to produce high-quality rice that will positively impact all sectors of the state’s economy.
In his remarks, the Olu of Magboro, Oba Alalade, acknowledged the significant benefits the project has brought to the local communities. He also mentioned that Magboro has ample farmland to accommodate more farmers, thereby contributing to the nation’s goal of food sufficiency.
The harvest at Magboro Rice Farm represents a step forward in Ogun State’s ongoing efforts to enhance food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
