The Ondo State Government says it has wealth creation a career through its various programmes on agro-business in order to empower youths and young adults across the state.
Mr Rotimi Akinsola, the Chairman of Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre (OSAEC), stated this on Thursday in Akure during a courtesy visit by the National Union of Okitipupa Local Government Students (NUOLGs).
Akinsola noted that agriculture had become a modern business sector that could create entrepreneurs, exporters, processors, technology innovators and employers of labor.
He explained that the agency, given the mandate by Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, remained committed to empowering young people and women through practical programmes which equipped participants with skills and resources.
According to him, the agency’s Adiye Irorun Programme has benefitted hundred of youths and women with the potential to benefit thousands more.
“Another opportunity available for the youths is the Bio-Organic Fertilizer Training designed to enable young people acquire practical skills in sustainable agriculture.
“The Eja Irorun Programme is also another youth-focused initiative that will soon commence in training and empowering 1,000 beneficiaries in two years across the state.
“I am excited about the forthcoming Ondo State Agricultural Development Programme being implemented in partnership with the Commonwealth Women’s Network.
“This will create opportunities for thousands of youths and women across the state through modern agricultural development and empowerment programmes,” the chairman said.
Akinsola listed Hydrophonics Training Initiative, empowerment of 2,000 people on yam production and Wise Programme on cassava production as others that would be implemented soon.
He enjoined residents of the state to make use of legitimate opportunities outlined by the agency in turning things around for good.
The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that the chairman donated N2 million to the union for miscellaneous expenses.
Earlier, the National President of NUOLGs, Mr Adeoye Omoleminu, said the visit was to commend the agency under the leadership of Akinsola for positively turning agriculture to wealth creation in the state.
Omoleminu promised that the students’ body would partner with the agency in impacting students and young people in Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state. (NAN)
