Considering favourable policy that will allow increasing population of youths to be gainfully employed in the agricultural sector, the Ogun State Government in collaboration with German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), is working out modalities for the adaptation of sustainable ideas into the agricultural roadmap of the State.

This indication emerged at a-day seminar organised in Abeokuta, to review and devise inclusive policies to attract investors, protect their interest and that of the smallholder farmers in the sector.

Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Adeola Odedina said old policies is no longer applicable, adding that the government as a key player in policy making would continue to involve relevant stakeholders to shape the future of agriculture with the formulation of new policies.

“Ogun State being the largest host to agro-resources and industries, we are elated to witness such an epoch-making event in the history of agricultural practices. We have assembled stakeholders here today, including foreign investors, to devise plans to promote their interest and investment in the agricultural sector. We need to protect investors and smallholders’ farmer, create jobs, food, nutrition and security, which cannot be achieved without formulation of favourable policies", Odedina submitted.

Earlier in his remark, a member of the GIZ team, Mr. Stephen Dada, highlighted the importance of agricultural policy on industrialisation and economic development of any State, assuring GIZ's readiness to join hands with government in the formulation and implementation of reformed policies.

Meanwhile, the ongoing distribution of free cassava stems, cashew and cocoa seedlings and improved maize seeds was extended to farmers in Ojowo, Ijebu-North Local Government Area of the State.

Dr. Odedina said the planting materials distribution designed to reach at least 40,000 smallholder farmers across the State, was a mandate of the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun towards increasing agricultural yields and standard of living of the farmers.

Appreciating the government on behalf of other beneficiaries, Mrs. Folasade Banjo, said the free planting inputs was a laudable programme, which would greatly impact on their farming activities.