Farmers In Ona-Ara, Egbeda, Kajola, Other LGAs Benefit As OYSADA Completes 5th N-Cares Farm Inputs Distribution

Farmers In Ona-Ara, Egbeda, Kajola, Other LGAs Benefit As OYSADA Completes 5th N-Cares Farm Inputs Distribution

  The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA)has completed its statewide 5th N-CARES agricultural inputs distribution, concluding the programme with the final local government areas of Ona-Ara, Egbeda, and Kajola, alongside other LGAs across the state. This marks the end of a multi-phase rollout that reached farmers in all 33 local government areas of Oyo State, delivering vital resources to boost food security and strengthen smallholder farming. Speaking during the concluding phase, Dr. Debo Akande, Director-General of OYSADA, emphasized that the initiative was a strategic investment in the state’s future. “This is more than input distribution, it’s about securing our food systems. Every seed, every bag of fertiliser is a building block for sustainable agriculture. We want our farmers to see themselves as entrepreneurs who feed our people and fuel our economy,” Akande said. In Ona-Ara Local Government, the Executive Chairman, Dr. Kolapo Temitope Glorious, praised the state government’s total support for grassroots farming. “This is a timely boost for our farmers. With the cost of farm inputs skyrocketing, such support ensures that food production in Ona-Ara will not be compromised,” he said. Beneficiary Mr. Akeem Ajibade, who cultivates maize and yam, expressed relief,.He said, “Before now, I had delayed planting because I couldn’t afford fertiliser. Now I can proceed and expect a good harvest.” Another beneficiary, Mrs. Adijat Ayinde, noted, “This support means my family can farm without borrowing money from local lenders who charge high interest.” In Egbeda Local Government, Executive Chairman Hon. Oyedele Sikiru Sanda, represented by Mr. Taiwo Job, assured that the state’s agricultural support would remain consistent. “This is not a one-off thing. The state’s agribusiness vision is long-term, and Egbeda will remain a priority in this agenda,” he said. One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Owonikoko Kareem, said, “With these improved seeds, I’m certain of better yields than last year.” Mrs. Funmilayo Oke, a vegetable and maize farmer, in her remarks added, “The herbicides alone will save me days of weeding and reduce my costs drastically.” In Kajola Local Government, Executive Chairman Hon. Mustapha Akeem Olawale hailed the intervention as a revival of rural farming communities. “Our farmers are resilient, but they need this kind of support to keep producing and to pass the farming culture to the next generation,” he said. Beneficiary Mr. Sulaimon Adegoke shared: “I farm maize and cassava, but last year’s poor input access almost ruined me. This year will be different.” Mrs. Kafayat Olaniyan added, “This is the first time I’m receiving government support directly. It feels like our efforts are finally being recognized.” Atisbo Local Government also received the N-CARES team, as Chairman Hon. Wasiu Olumuyiwa Alade, represented by Secretary to the Local Government Hon. Oderinde Johnson Owolabi JP, applauded OYSADA for bringing the programme to Atisbo farmers. “Our farmers are hardworking, but the high cost of inputs has been discouraging. This intervention gives them the motivation to keep farming,” he said. In Saki East Local Government, Chairman Hon. Prince Adedokun Emmanuel Olalekan said the programme was restoring confidence among farmers. “With these inputs, our farmers can plant on time and get higher yields, which will boost both household income and local food supply,” he said. Baale Agbe for Saki East, Chief Isaila Adegbiji, remarked: “This is the kind of support that sustains rural farming communities for generations.” In Oorelope Local Government, Vice Chairman Hon. Wasiu Babatunde Adewale, representing Executive Chairman Hon. Alabi Joseph Adekunle. The council chairman in his address said, “We will ensure these inputs reach genuine farmers who will use them effectively to feed the community.” Baale Agbe, Chief Oladuni Isaiah Adeola, said: “Government support like this renews our hope in farming as a profitable livelihood.” Iyalode Agbe, Mrs. Bamidele Adijat, added: “I can now expand my farmland without fear of debt.” In Irepo Local Government, Executive Chairman Hon. Olayiwola Tunde Taoheed said the support was timely for the planting season. “This is how we build food security, empowering our farmers at the right time,” he said. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Secretary to the Local Government Muhammed Jamiu Adulbakky and Chief of Staff Prince Jelil Adewale Arowoduye thanked the state for prioritizing rural farmers. In Olorunsogo Local Government, Chairman Hon. Kazeem Olayanju, represented by Secretary to the Local Government Mr. James Gbadebo Aremu, said:“Olorunsogo has vast farmlands, and with these inputs, we will see higher productivity this season.” Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Director of Agriculture Mr. Adesupo Emmanuel Olusola noted the government’s commitment to agriculture. Soybean farmer Ogunkeye Ayodele Monshud said: “This will help me increase yield and meet market demand.” In Ogo Oluwa Local Government, Chairman Hon. Oluwaseun Ojo urged farmers to make the best use of the distributed items. He further said, “When we invest in farmers, we invest in the future of our communities,” he said. Hon. Oyekale Idowu, speaking for the beneficiaries, said: “We’ve been waiting for this kind of support; it will go a long way in improving our output.” Farmer Ojewusi Simeon added: “This intervention came at the perfect time.” In Surulere Local Government, Chairman Hon. Isaiah Adegbite said the programme would help stabilize food prices. He said, “When farmers can produce more, everybody benefits, from the farm to the market,” he said. Cassava farmer Chief James Olawale expressed gratitude, he sa “I can now process more cassava without worrying about high input costs.” AFAN Chairman of the LGA, Ojeleye Amos, added, “This support will improve yields and strengthen our association’s capacity.” In Oriire Local Government, Executive Chairman Hon. Alabi Olateju Aremu described the programme as “a direct investment in the survival of rural farming.” Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Ayantoyinbo Ayandosun Kehinde, Head of Local Government Mr. Williams Jare Idowu, and Director of Administration and General Services praised OYSADA’s commitment to all LGAs. “We are seeing first-hand the impact of government investment in agriculture,” Kehinde said. Across all participating LGAs, farmers received NPK fertilisers, improved maize seeds, soybean seeds, herbicides, and NoduMax legume inoculants worth millions of naira, at least each beneficiary … Read more

OYSADA Extends N-CARES Farm Inputs Distribution To Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun Zones •••As Farmers In Aiyete, Igboora, Iwere-Ile, Others Rejoice Over Govt. Support

OYSADA Extends N-CARES Farm Inputs Distribution To Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun Zones •••As Farmers In Aiyete, Igboora, Iwere-Ile, Others Rejoice Over Govt. Support

  The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) has extended the ongoing fifth phase of the Nigeria Community Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (N-CARES) farm inputs distribution to farmers across Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central, Ibarapa North, Iwajowa, and Itesiwaju Local Government Areas of Oyo State. The distribution exercise led by the Director General of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande aimed at mitigating the economic effects of the hardship ensued from the fuel subsidy removal on smallholder farmers as well as to enhance food production across the state. While addressing the beneficiaries on Friday, the OYSADA DG, Dr Debo Akande reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to fairness and transparency. He said, “This process is guided by principles of transparency, accountability, and orderliness. We are committed to ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit from this programme. “Governor Seyi Makinde has made it clear, there is no room for favouritism or political interference in empowering our rural farmers.” Debo said. At Aiyete, the headquarters of Ibarapa North, the intervention brought a wave of relief as ten verified farmer groups, each consisting of ten members, received NPK fertilizer, cassava stems, and herbicides. The Executive Chairman of Ibarapa North Local Government, Hon. Lateef Akorede Adebare, was represented by the Secretary of the Local Government, Hon. Oyediran Monsuru, who commended the initiative: “What the government is doing through OYSADA is not just support, it is a statement that rural farmers matter.” One of the beneficiaries, Alabi Saminu, a cassava farmer, said. “We were almost giving up because fertilizer and herbicides are now beyond the reach of poor farmers like us. But today, we received help without stress or middlemen. Governor Makinde has shown that he understands our struggles.” Pastor Olayiwola, Chairman of the Farmers Association in Ibarapa North, also remarked, “This is the first time in years that our people are receiving government support directly. We are not just receiving farm inputs, we are receiving encouragement to keep feeding the state.” At the Ibarapa East distribution centre in Eruwa, verified farmers received NPK fertilizer, improved maize seeds, and herbicides. The Executive Chairman, Hon. Arogundade Owolabi, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Olatunji Kazali. “This initiative is a lifeline to many of our farmers who have been struggling with the rising cost of inputs. The transparency and efficiency of OYSADA’s operations under Dr. Debo Akande are commendable.” Ajayi Olakunle, a maize farmer, described the intervention as timely. He said, “When I heard about this programme, I didn’t believe it would reach us. But here I am today with fertilizer and seeds in my hands. It’s not just support, it’s a show of genuine concern.” Another farmer, Segun Ojebola, added, “For years, we’ve heard about government programmes that never get to the real farmers. But this is different. This support got to us directly, no politics, no middlemen.” Also, at Ibarapa Central in Igboora, the distribution was met with enthusiasm. The LGA Chairman, Hon. Sola Adeleke, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Atilola Oyeyemi. “This is what inclusive governance looks like. These inputs are not handouts, they are investments in the future of food security.” He said. The Chairman of the Farmers’ Association in Ibarapa Central, Adeleke Azeez, added: “We farmers are the backbone of this state’s food supply. But today, Governor Makinde has shown that he sees us. With these inputs, many of our members will return to their farms with renewed hope.” Okegbenle Mofoyofolu, a representative of a women-led cooperative, said: “Many of us are single mothers and widows. This support is nothing short of a miracle. The fact that we were included means someone is truly listening to rural voices.” The distribution train also reached Iwere Ile in Iwajowa Local Government, where over 100 farmers received 50kg SSP fertilizer, soybean herbicide, NoduMax legume inoculant for soybeans, and 10kg soybean seeds each. The event was supervised by the Iwajowa Local Government Chairman, Hon. Abiodun Oyewunmi Muritala, who was represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Adeola Seyi. Among the beneficiaries were Moriamo Yekini and Akintunde Yusuf, who both expressed deep gratitude for the assistance that came at a critical time in the farming season. Moriamo Yekini, a widow and vegetable farmer, said, “I never thought I would benefit from a government programme like this. With these inputs, I can expand my farm and take better care of my children. This is a huge blessing.” Akintunde Yusuf, a young farmer from Iwere Ile, added, “This support proves that farming is not a forgotten profession. With the rising cost of everything, this is the boost I needed to keep going. I’m grateful to OYSADA and Governor Makinde.” In Itesiwaju LGA, the distribution was held at Otu, where it was overseen by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Ayangade Peter Ayantayo, who represented the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ojo Monsuru Olayemi. Hon. Ayantayo praised the initiative, saying, “This programme is a direct investment in our people. It shows that government can work for everyone, not just the privileged. We are grateful for this timely intervention.” High-profile beneficiaries in the area included the Oniro of Otu, His Royal Highness, Oba Sunday Adepoju, and Chief Julius Ayandele Ayanwunmi. Speaking on behalf of traditional leaders, Oba Adepoju applauded the state government’s grassroots engagement, “For the government to remember us here in the rural communities shows that we are not forgotten. This is the kind of responsive leadership we prayed for.”

OYSADA Commences 5th Distribution Exercise Of N-Cares Farm Inputs To Farmers•••As Beneficiaries In Ido, Ogbomosho LGAs Laud Makinde Over Initiative

OYSADA Commences 5th Distribution Exercise Of N-Cares Farm Inputs To Farmers•••As Beneficiaries In Ido, Ogbomosho LGAs Laud Makinde Over Initiative

IBADAN  –  The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), under the Director General (DG), Dr. Debo Akande, has commenced the fifth distribution of farm inputs to farmers across the geo-political zones of the state. The farm input distribution aligns with the Nigeria Community Action For Resilience And Economic Stimulus (N-CARES) program, which the state has adopted for the benefit of farmers. The State Project Coordinator (SPC), Mr. Ishola Popoola, who led the OYSADA team on the distribution exercise on Monday at Arowomole, headquarters of Ogbomosho South Local Government, urged farmers to make good use of the inputs. While addressing the farmers on behalf of the OYSADA DG, Popoola stated that Governor Seyi Makinde had mandated the agency to carry out the exercise to assist farmers across the state and increase food production. Farmers in Ogbomosho South were also addressed by Mr. Adeniran Adegboyega Ajani, the Head of Local Government Administration. The Executive Chairman of the local government, Hon. Oyedokun Oyeniyi Timothy, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Sunday Folarin. Others present were Princess Bello Bolanle Adenike (Director of Agriculture), Hon. Adegboyega Stephen (Supervisor for Agriculture), and Mrs. Akanni Olaide (Deputy Director of Agriculture). Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Elder John Oyekale, Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ogbomosho South Chapter, said: “We really appreciate Governor Makinde for his timely support. I also commend the DG of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande, for the transparent and orderly manner in which this distribution was carried out.” In Ogbomosho North Local Government, the OYSADA N-Cares distribution team was received by the Executive Chairman, Hon. George Ogunlade, alongside the Secretary of the Local Government, Mrs. Bolanle Olaniyi, and other political officials. In his remarks, Hon. Ogunlade said, “Governor Makinde is doing well for farmers in the state. Just a few weeks ago, some of our farmers were called to Ibadan, where they received farm inputs. Today, we are also witnessing another farm input distribution by OYSADA. Our farmers will go home with smiles on their faces, as they are receiving another round of support.” “So, I’m using this medium to urge you all to continue supporting our government, the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration, because to whom much is given, much is expected.” Two local farmers, Mrs. Alice Oyekale (a cassava farmer) and Mr. Alabi Are (a maize and soya beans farmer), also expressed their appreciation. Mrs. Oyekale said, “This support has brought great relief to us. The cost of inputs is very high, and we didn’t expect this kind of help to come so soon. We thank the government for remembering us.” Mr. Are added, “I’m grateful for this intervention. It shows that the government is serious about supporting agriculture. With these inputs, I am hopeful this farming season will be a productive one.” The distribution exercise also took place in Ido Local Government Area, where the OYSADA N-Cares team, led by the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ishola Popoola, who was represented by Dr. Ayedun Bamikole, reiterated the agency’s commitment to reaching every farming community across the state. The Executive Chairman of Ido Local Government, Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, expressed his gratitude to the governor and OYSADA. He revealed that a total of 40 bags of NPK fertilizer, 100 bags of 50kg maize seeds, and 70 bottles of 1-litre herbicides were distributed to ten groups of farmers. In his words, “This administration is intentional about boosting food production and empowering rural farmers. Ido Local Government is grateful to Governor Makinde and OYSADA for this targeted intervention. We will continue to play our part in supporting agribusiness.” Also present were key local government officials, agricultural supervisors, and community leaders who supported the smooth execution of the exercise. Two beneficiaries from Ido also shared their views. Mr. Razaq Adebayo, a maize farmer from Akufo, said, “These inputs came at the right time. We have been struggling with the high cost of fertilizers and seeds. I thank Governor Makinde for remembering us in Ido. With this support, my yield will definitely improve.” Mr. Olarenwaju Akeem, representing a cooperative group, added, “What we received today may look small to some people, but to us farmers, it is a big relief. OYSADA has done this with fairness and transparency. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Debo Akande and the Governor. They have brought hope back to us.” OYSADA, under Dr Debo Akande leadership has supported over thirteen thousands of smallholder vulnerable farmers in the state and this has reflected in the high volume of crop production in the state in the last three years

Suppliers Oppose Dangote’s Proposed Direct Fuel Distribution Scheme

  Less than a month before the commencement of Dangote refinery’s direct fuel distribution scheme, oil suppliers in Nigeria have asked the company to rescind its decision. From August 15, Dangote would begin supplying fuel directly to filling stations, telecommunication companies, the aviation sector, and other bulk fuel consumers. However, suppliers under the aegis of the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria expressed concerns that the move could lead to widespread job losses across the sector. In a statement made available to our correspondent, NOGASA President Benneth Korie said Dangote’s plan to bypass the traditional distribution network would disrupt the oil and gas supply chain and threaten the livelihoods of thousands of workers. Korie’s comment confirmed a report by Sunday PUNCH that there was growing tension among fuel suppliers and tanker drivers over Dangote’s new distribution scheme. With 4,000 new Compressed Natural Gas-powered tankers for nationwide distribution of petrol, diesel, and jet fuel directly to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecom firms, aviation companies, and other large consumers, Dangote intends to shun traditional depots and middlemen. But members of NOGASA, who serve as intermediaries between refineries and final consumers, feared that the distribution model would render them ’useless’ in the industry. “This is the new trend in the oil and gas industry, where Dangote is now supplying products directly to end users, especially MTN, companies, hotels, and all the rest of them. Members of NOGASA are suppliers of petroleum products. By doing so, a lot of jobs are at stake, and we are kicking against this new way of supplying products to end users,” Korie stated. He worried that many NOGASA members and their employees could lose their jobs, saying that the redundancy of trucks, drivers, and other logistic staff looms as a direct result of the bypassed supply chain. “It will remove jobs from a lot of them, and some of our staff will be redundant, and some of our trucks will be redundant,” said Korie, who added that NOGASA’s meeting scheduled for July 31 in Abuja would focus on developing a unified strategy to address the issue, including the possibility of downing tools and direct engagement with Dangote to seek a resolution. He said the association is advocating for a distribution structure where Dangote supplies products to NOGASA members, who will then sell to end-users to preserve jobs within the supply chain. “We are holding a general meeting on July 31 to decide whether to down tools and to find a way to ensure that Dangote will supply the product to them rather than supply to the end users. And we will, in turn, supply to the end users. These are chains of distribution,” Korie explained. Punch

Oyo State NG-CARES Continues Farm Inputs Distribution to Smallholder Farmers in June 2025

  The Oyo State Government,under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, proudly announced the continuation of the distribution of farm inputs to smallholder farmers through the Oyo State Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (Oyo State NG-CARES) programme in June 2025. This initiative, supported by the World Bank, aims to enhance food security, boost agricultural productivity, and mitigate the economic challenges faced by vulnerable farmers across the state. Building on the success of previous phases, the June 2025 distribution targets thousands of smallholder farmers in multiple local government areas (LGAs), providing critical agricultural inputs such as NPK fertilizers, maize and tomato seeds, herbicides, cassava cuttings, and livestock like goats. In 2024, the fourth phase of the programme supported 3,660 farmers across 26 LGAs, significantly improving livelihoods and food production. This ongoing effort underscores the state’s commitment to empowering farmers and fostering economic resilience in the face of all challenges unleashed on Nigerians by the failed All Progressives Congress (APC) administration. The Oyo State NG-CARES programme, coordinated by the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), also includes capacity-building and extension services to equip farmers with modern techniques for sustainable farming. The initiative prioritizes Farmers Community Associations (FCAs) and beneficiaries of the Youth Entrepreneur Agro-preneur Programme (YEAP), ensuring inclusivity and impact. Governor Makinde’s administration remains dedicated to transforming Oyo State’s agricultural sector through strategic interventions like NG-CARES, the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) programme, and tractorization subsidies. These efforts align with the Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023–2027, aiming to reduce poverty, create jobs, and ensure food sufficiency.