Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, recently embarked on a visit to two large-scale mechanized farms in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to bolstering agricultural development within the state. The farms, SAO Agro Farms and JB Farms Limited, both operate in collaboration with the government and exemplify the transformative potential of large-scale agricultural ventures. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s visit highlighted the significant progress achieved in converting previously unutilized land into productive agricultural enterprises, emphasizing the positive economic and social impact of these initiatives.
During his tour of the palm plantation and processing mill at SAO Agro Farms, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed profound admiration for the sheer scale of the operation and the remarkable transformation of the once dense forest into a thriving agricultural hub. He commended the company’s investment in extensive infrastructure development, including road construction and the ongoing development of a modern processing mill, recognizing the significant contribution such investments make to the overall agricultural ecosystem. The Governor praised SAO Agro’s vision, which extends beyond mere food production to encompass the broader goal of nation-building through agriculture.
The Governor’s visit also served as a platform to address the issue of illegal farming activities on the land. While acknowledging the need to protect legitimate agricultural investments, Governor Aiyedatiwa demonstrated a commitment to finding equitable solutions for all stakeholders. He directed the illegal farmers to vacate the land but simultaneously assured them of the government’s commitment to providing alternative farmland, thereby mitigating potential displacement and ensuring continued livelihood opportunities for local farmers. This dual approach underscores the administration’s commitment to balancing the promotion of large-scale agriculture with the needs of smaller-scale farmers.
At JB Farms Limited, Governor Aiyedatiwa witnessed another successful example of large-scale agricultural transformation. The farm, which commenced operations in August 2021, has already cleared and planted thousands of hectares of land. The CEO of JB Farms, Mr. Ajibola Adebutu, highlighted the positive impact of the farm’s establishment on the local community, particularly in terms of improved security and employment opportunities. He recounted the challenging initial stages of the project, when the area was notorious for criminal activity, emphasizing the significant strides made in transforming the area into a safe and productive environment.
The success stories of both SAO Agro Farms and JB Farms Limited underscore the potential of large-scale agriculture to drive economic growth, create employment, and enhance food security in Ondo State. The Governor’s visit served not only as an endorsement of these particular ventures but also as a broader signal of the state government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for agricultural investment and development. By supporting large-scale farming initiatives while simultaneously addressing the concerns of smaller-scale farmers, the Ondo State government aims to create a balanced and sustainable agricultural sector that benefits all stakeholders.
The collaborative approach between the government and private agricultural enterprises exemplified by SAO Agro Farms and JB Farms Limited holds significant promise for the future of agriculture in Ondo State. By leveraging the resources and expertise of both the public and private sectors, the state government aims to unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector, contributing not only to economic growth but also to improved livelihoods and enhanced food security for the people of Ondo State. The Governor’s visit to these farms represents a significant step towards realizing this vision and further solidifies the state’s commitment to transforming its agricultural landscape.
