Towards achieving sustainable agricultural development for his community, the Onirete of Irete-Ijebu in Odogbolu Local Government area of Ogun State, Oba (Dr.) Abdul Ganiyu Awokoya, has called for a partnership with the State Government to empower the people in the area on food production.

The monarch made this request during a courtesy visit to the Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Oba Awokoya expressed his community's readiness to contribute to the state's agricultural transformation, emphasizing that the journey from potential to prosperity required not only the efforts of local farmers but also a strong partnership with the Ogun State Government to foster sustainable agricultural growth.

“Irete is an ancient town known for its agricultural richness, with vast fields of cassava, yams, maize, okro and more. Yet, despite the abundance of fertile land and hardworking farmers, we face persistent challenges such as outdated farming techniques and climate-related uncertainties that threaten food security,” Onirete said.

He continued, “However, we must evolve to meet the demands of the modern world. We need the establishment of a modern agricultural training center, the introduction of sustainable farming practices, and the construction of food processing facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. Additionally, training our farmers to adopt technology that enhances productivity and income is crucial.”

In response, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, commended the monarch’s vision, noting that the administration of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun had already championed policies to transform agriculture in Ogun State. He highlighted the sector's immense potential to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and ensure food security.

The commissioner acknowledged that the future of agriculture in Ogun State lies in strong collaboration between the government and local communities, a partnership that will drive sustainable agricultural development across the state.

Appreciating the commissioner for his readiness to collaborate with the ancient town, the Anowoneyo Area Community Development Committee Chairman of Irete- Ijebu, Otunba Saheed Dosumu, posited that people of the town would continue to give the current administration in the state led Gov. Dapo Abiodun the necessary support needed to achieve more success in office.