The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting investors in the hospitality sector, assuring businesses of continued efforts to create a favourable environment for sustainable growth and development. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, gave the assurance when he received the management team of Metro Tulip Apartment Hotel & Suites, Akobo, Ibadan, during a courtesy visit to the ministry. Olatubosun expressed satisfaction with the hotel’s interest in partnering with the state government to promote Oyo’s tourism potential. He said the increasing interest of investors in the sector was an indication that the culture and tourism policies of the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde were yielding positive results. The commissioner explained that the state’s tourism development was being driven by collaboration among government and industry stakeholders, noting that teamwork, commitment and passion remained essential to achieving sustainable growth. He assured hospitality investors of government’s support through improved infrastructure, enhanced security and other initiatives designed to strengthen the tourism ecosystem. Olatubosun also urged Metro Tulip to develop programmes in partnership with the ministry, particularly around major cultural and tourism events such as the World Egungun Festival, World Tourism Day, Sango Festival and Isese Day celebrations. He encouraged other investors in the hospitality industry to explore the opportunities available in Oyo State, assuring them of the ministry’s readiness to support initiatives that would contribute to the growth of the sector. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, commended the Metro Tulip management for its hospitality initiative and encouraged the hotel to sustain its investment in the sector. Babalola urged the management to submit proposals for government consideration, particularly those capable of contributing to the development of the hotel industry and the broader hospitality sector. Similarly, the General Manager of the Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Adekunle Agboola, praised the hotel’s proposal to establish a cultural corridor for showcasing monuments and tourism attractions. He advised the management to collaborate with the Visual Arts Department of the council to complement the project with artworks showcasing Oyo State’s rich cultural heritage and tourism destinations. Earlier, the General Manager of Metro Tulip Apartment Hotel & Suites, Mr. Clifford Ndubuisi, commended the ministry’s leadership and Governor Seyi Makinde’s efforts to position Oyo State as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria. Ndubuisi highlighted some of the state’s tourism achievements, including the hosting of the International Tourism Summit and the recognition of the World Sango Festival as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. He noted that the expansion of tourism activities across the state was creating new opportunities for the hospitality industry, particularly with the growing number of visitors to attractions such as Idere Hills, the Iyake Suspended Lake in Ado-Awaye and the World Egungun Festival. According to him, Metro Tulip’s visit was aimed at transitioning from being a passive observer of the state’s tourism development to becoming an active partner. He said the hotel was prepared to align its operations with the ministry’s tourism calendar and agenda while contributing to the government’s efforts to grow the sector. Ndubuisi proposed several areas of collaboration, including the establishment of a cultural information hub within the hotel, curated heritage tour packages, partnerships around major festivals, and support for the proper structuring, registration and standardisation of the hospitality sector. He also pledged the hotel’s support for the actualisation of the state government’s tourism objectives. The Metro Tulip team appreciated the commissioner for his open-door policy and commitment to advancing culture and tourism in Oyo State, expressing optimism that the proposed partnership would attract more visitors, promote the state’s cultural heritage and boost its hospitality and tourism economy.
Oyo Govt
BREAKING: Oyo Govt Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Commemorate Islamic New Year 1448
The Oyo state Government has declared Tuesday 16th of June, 2026 as a public holiday. The state government, in a circular signed by the SSG, Prof. Musibau Babatunde and made available to newsmen on Monday, said the holiday is in honour of the new Hijirah islamic calendar year 1448. The government urged the citizens, especially Muslim faithful to pray for a continued peace and progress of the state. over 1000 hajj pilgrims from Oyo State that went to the Holy Land of Mecca in Saudi Arabia in May returned safely days ago.
Itansan Art Fest To Celebrate Ancestral Heritage In Ibadan•••As Convener Adewunmi Lauds Oyo Govt For Endorsing Even
The convener of the forthcoming Itansan Art Fest, Adekunle Adewunmi Elizabeth, has said the initiative is driven by a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage and celebrating ancestral legacy through creative expression. Adewunmi made this known during a pre-event red carpet session held at Plot 11, Oluyole Estate Road, Ibadan, where she engaged guests, creatives, and stakeholders on the vision behind the project. The festival, themed “Beacon of the Ancestors,” is scheduled to hold on May 22, 2026, at the Adeline Hall of Lead City University, Ibadan. Addressing participants, Adewunmi described the gathering as more than a ceremonial event, appreciating attendees for their presence and contributions. “This is not just a gathering; it is a room filled with people whose voices and presence truly matter,” she said. Speaking on the inspiration behind the festival, she noted that her journey as a theatre artiste, alongside her royal roots as a princess from Ile-Ife, significantly shaped the initiative. “My journey has always been rooted in culture, tradition, and storytelling. At some point, I began to ask what if this expression could become something bigger than me,” she said. According to her, that reflection led to the birth of Itansan Art Fest, which she described as “a platform, a space, and an experience that goes beyond just one individual.” Explaining the meaning behind the festival’s name, Adewunmi said Itansan translates to “Ray of Light,” symbolising cultural illumination and reverence for ancestors. “We want to shine a light on our culture and, most importantly, our ancestors. It is about honouring those who came before us while carrying their stories, strength, and spirit forward,” she added. She further explained that the festival is designed to bridge generational gaps by connecting the past, present, and future through artistic expression. The event will feature a variety of cultural showcases, including stage plays, traditional music and dance, visual arts, and fashion exhibitions. A major highlight of the festival will be the launch of Adewunmi’s comic book titled “Emissaries of the Gods: IKO ORISA,” which reimagines Yoruba deities as superheroes for children and teenagers. Describing the festival experience, she emphasised that it is intended to be immersive rather than passive. “This is not something you just attend; it is something you feel. We want people to experience culture in a way that stays with them,” she said. Adewunmi also called for collaboration and active participation from stakeholders, stressing the importance of collective input in building a sustainable cultural movement. “Please don’t hold back. Share your ideas and tell us what will excite your community and make this festival unforgettable,” Adewunmi urged. Adewunmi noted that the Ooni of Ile -Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, His Wife, Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi, Madam Jaiye Kuti, Abiodun Adeyemi (President Karim Adeyemi Foundation) as well as the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun, among others are expected to grace the event. The Itansan Art Fest is expected to bring together artists, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public in a vibrant celebration that blends tradition with contemporary creativity while reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation.
Exam Malpractices: Oyo Govt. Reiterates Ban On Meta Glasses, Phones In Schools
IBADAN – The Oyo State government has reaffirmed its ban on mobile phones, smart watches, including Meta eye glasses in schools, especially during examination, warning that violators will face strict consequences. The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known today while addressing education stakeholders including Permanent Secretaries, Inspectors General of Education (PS/IGEs), and Heads of Departments during a meeting held at the Ministry’s conference room. Hon. Olayiwola emphasized the importance of discipline and integrity in the conduct of examinations, noting that an official circular already prohibits students from bringing mobile phones into school premises and examination venues. He urged school authorities to enforce this directive without exception. He further stressed that the use of smart watches, meta eyeglasses, and other devices that could facilitate examination malpractice is also strictly prohibited. The Commissioner called on teachers, parents, and guardians to monitor their wards closely and ensure compliance with these directives. “We must all work together to uphold the integrity of our education system and maintain discipline across our schools,” he stated.
World Sickle Cell Day: Oyo Govt Re-Affirms Commitment To Quality Healthcare Delivery …as Over 300 participants received free medications
On World Sickle Cell Day, Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality healthcare for its citizens, especially individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). World Sickle Cell Day, observed globally on June 19, serves as a vital platform for raising awareness and improving understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with sickle cell disease. Speaking at a sensitization event held at Ikolaba High School, Ibadan, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, explained the importance of early detection, enhanced access to medical care, and community awareness in reducing the burden of the disease. She emphasized that the state’s healthcare reforms are deeply rooted in the principles of universal health coverage and equity, ensuring that conditions such as SCD remain a consistent priority. The event, organized in collaboration with a Non-governmental Foundation, brought together patients, families, and students across the city. Dr. Ajetunmobi explained that the state government’s strategy for addressing Sickle Cell Disease includes strengthening newborn screening for early diagnosis, expanding access to vital medications such as hydroxyurea and folic acid, and integrating SCD clinics into all levels of healthcare from primary to tertiary facilities. She also stressed the need for accurate health data, which has led to the development of sickle cell disease registries to better understand and respond to disease trends. Ajetunmobi noted that these efforts reflect Governor Seyi Makinde’s broader vision for a robust and inclusive healthcare system in Oyo State. She added that under his administration, several transformative initiatives have been implemented, including the Omituntun Free Health Mission, which continues to provide comprehensive free healthcare across all 33 local government areas. Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi explained that the mission targets vulnerable groups such as children under five and the elderly, while also offering free surgical services. She hinted that more than 200 primary healthcare centres have been renovated, 150 others are currently undergoing upgrades, and over 3,000 health workers have been employed to improve service delivery. “Through the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA), more than 400,000 residents now have access to affordable and consistent healthcare”. Ajetunmobi said. She urged citizens to take personal responsibility for their health by knowing their genotype, seeking early diagnosis, adhering to prescribed treatments, and embracing genetic counselling to make informed reproductive choices. The Commissioner also encouraged policymakers to maintain and increase support for sickle cell programmes across the state. Over 300 participants received free medications, and many also benefited from immediate health education and counselling services.
Oyo Gov’t, UNICEF Host High-Level Advocacy Meeting With S’west Information Ministries
In a landmark effort to advance children-centred advocacy and effective communication for childrens’s right actualization, Oyo State Government in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), convened an advocacy dialogue and capacity-building meeting with the Commissioners, Permanent Secretries and top officials from the Ministries of Information across the Southwest states of Nigeria. The event, themed “Scaling Results for Children Through Evidence-Based Social and Behavioural Change,” was held at Orchid Hotel, Ikota-Lekki, Lagos State. It brought together key stakeholders to explore strategic approaches to drive positive social change, promote children’s rights, and advance gender equity through effective communication practices and evidence-based policy alignment. Representing the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Oyo State, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, in his keynote address, emphasized that success would be measured not just by policies or meetings, but by real outcomes, well-nourished children, access to clean water and protection from vaccine-preventable diseases. According to Oyelade, “The wellbeing of women and children through three fundamental pillars of public health—Nutrition, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and Immunization—are interlinked and vital to the survival, growth, and development of our communities.” He stressed the need for strategic communication, advocacy, and community engagement on social and behavioral change. “We must ensure our messages are clear, culturally relevant, and widely disseminated. We must amplify grassroots voices and empower programs that drive behavior change,” he said. “As Commissioner for Information, I am reminded of the power and responsibility that communication holds in the success of any public health intervention. Our communities can only benefit from nutrition programs if they are aware of them. Clean water and sanitation will only be effective when people understand and adopt good hygiene practices. Immunization will only reach its full potential if families trust and accept it.” Oyelade thanked UNICEF for its continued support through technical expertise and resources. He urged participants to be bold in ideas, open to collaboration, and relentless in their commitment to service. “Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient future for all,” he concluded. In his remarks, UNICEF’s Chief of Social and Behaviour Change, Abuja, Kshitiy Joshi, emphasized the urgency of rethinking communication as a tool for transformation “The world is changing everyday,” he declared. He highlighted the importance of data-driven, people-centered communication in shaping public attitudes and behaviors. “We must go beyond awareness to action—addressing deeply rooted norms, influencing behaviors, and ensuring that no child is left behind.” Joshi further noted that sustainable development for children cannot be achieved without the active involvement of Ministries of Information, who play a critical role in shaping public discourse and influencing societal behavior at scale. In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Oyo State, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, represented by Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Bukola Bakare, reiterated the meeting’s goal to improve the wellbeing of women and children and ensure that every child survives, thrives, and grows up in a safe and nurturing environment. “Essential family practices are simple yet powerful actions that families can take to improve children’s health, nutrition, and development,” he said. “From exclusive breastfeeding and handwashing with soap to proper home care for illnesses and timely immunizations, these practices, when consistently adopted, save lives and lay the foundation for a productive and healthy life.” In their separate goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Osun State, Barrister Kolapo Alimi; Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media and Communication, Hon. Kayode Akinmade; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Ekiti State, Prince Olusesan Alabi; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Lagos State, Mr. Olunde Sogunle; and Administrative Secretary, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Ondo State, Mr. Olanrewaju Akarakiri, commended UNICEF’s strategic role in promoting inclusive communication and policy engagement that prioritizes the welfare of children and women. They described UNICEF as a trusted partner in progress, whose interventions have significantly impacted communities across the region. The representatives reaffirmed their states’ readiness to partner with UNICEF on future initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children and vulnerable populations in the Southwest.
Oyo Gov’t, Cyclist Aiming Guinness World Record Set To Train 18 Orphans
The Oyo State Government is set to make a historic entry into the Guinness Book of Records as it backs an attempt by Ibadan-based cyclist, Ebaide Joy who will embark on a record-breaking motorcycle journey across 12 African countries in July. The mission will not only challenge the Guinness World Record for the longest solo ride by a female biker- currently at 30,000 kilometers, but will also provide life-changing vocational training for 18 orphaned girls who have a similar background of growing up in orphanage institutions in Nigeria like Joy did. The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Toyin Balogun who announced this in a statement on Monday, in Ibadan said the feat, officially approved by Guinness World Records, has full support from the Ministry of Women Affairs and social development. She said this is in a bid to empower vulnerable girls and amplify the voices of African women on the global stage. Balogun’s words, “Ebaide Joy is a daring female motorcyclist and philanthropist who is set to embark on a record-breaking motorcycle journey across 12 African countries.” She pledged institutional backing for Ebaide’s mission, describing her initiative as one that dovetails neatly with the ministry’s core mandate for the sustainable empowerment and alleviation of poverty from vulnerable demographics. She added that the ministry, with the backing of His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde, would be delighted to support the training and post-graduation empowerment of the 18 beneficiaries. “Once these girls complete their training, the ministry will work with your team to provide startup grants and equipment to ensure they achieve sustainable livelihoods,” she said. She observed that Ebaide’s initiative aligns with the state’s broader goal of the ministry. “This is more than a just record-breaking adventure or an adrenaline chasing venture.It’s a symbol of the resilience, courage, and commitment to breaking glass ceilings of the female demographic,” Hon. Balogun stated. She said, “You’ve been able to rise above personal and physical challenges, including being orphaned at a young age,a spinal cord injury from an accident to creating a platform for other vulnerable girls to thrive. That is not only truly extraordinary,it’s remarkable,worth celebrating and what’s more,deserving of support.” “This partnership is timely, strategic, and has a nexus with the Makinde administration’s people-centric agenda on sustainable empowerment”, the Honorable Commissioner stated. Ebaide Joy’s solo journeies are filmed with a camera mounted on her motorcycle, showcasing not only the gruelling physical demands of the journey, but also the stories of the people she meets along the way. Ebaide described her travels as the “highlight of her life,” noting that the adrenaline, purpose, and mission fuel her resolve even in moments of exhaustion. Her upcoming trip begins in July, 2025 and is expected to take three months. Upon her return to Nigeria, she plans to host a graduation ceremony for the empowered girls, marking a new chapter in their lives and continuing her mission of impact through adventure. Ebaide Joy said that her journey is not just about breaking a record; it’s about breaking cycles of poverty. “I grew up an orphan, and I understand the struggles and vulnerabilities they face.This journey is not just about breaking a record; it’s about breaking cycles of poverty,” Evaida told the Commissioner Hon( Mrs) Toyin Balogun and other officials during her visit. This program will be empowering 18 orphaned girls with three months of intensive vocational training in tailoring, hairdressing, and catering. After graduation, each will receive capital to start her own business.”
Oyo Govt Trains 1,950 farmers in various Agricultural Enterprises
The Oyo State Government has begun a capacity-building program for One Thousand, Nine-hundred and fifty, 1,950 farmers across the 33 local government areas in the State, as part of its continued efforts in ensuring food security. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, while declaring the training exercise open on Wednesday in Ibadan, said the event will create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that boosts food production in Nigeria. Speaking through the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye, the Commissioner revealed that government is investing in the State’s future through its various trainings for farmers, adding that the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration recognizes the crucial role farmers play in ensuring food security and economic prosperity. According to Olasunkanmi, “the training program encompasses various areas, 660 farmers will receive training on pasture establishment, management, conservation, and artificial insemination techniques, 300 farmers will learn about climate-smart agriculture, focusing on high-value crop production and effective weed management strategies, 140 young farmers will receive training on beekeeping practices,100 participants will learn about shea butter production techniques, 90 participants will receive training on locust bean processing methods, 660 youths, women, and retirees will receive specialized training on mushroom cultivation across all zones in the state.” Barrister Olaleye therefore urged the participants to take full advantage of the training, emphasizing that the government has engaged expert resource persons to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. Expert at the event included scholars from the University of Ibadan, such as Prof. Olusola Olorunnisomo; Dr. Adewunmi Adesina. Others were Mr. Tunmise Olagbaju, and Mr. Kola Ajao, Bee Specialist, amongst others.
Oyo Govt Flags-Off Health Insurance Scheme For Primary School Pupils
The Oyo State government has officially flagged off the enrollment of 10,000 basic school pupils into the state’s healthcare insurance scheme. The children, enrolled from 90 schools across 18 LGAs were presented their Insurance scheme ID cards on Thursday at the Ibadan Civic center, Idi-ape, Ibadan, by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal. The Deputy Governor said the enrolment was part of the Oyo state government’s effort towards ensuring its pupils are of sound minds. He said, “This scheme will ensure that our children have sound minds, while they learn in conducive environments” He applauded the partnership and collaboration between the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, OYSHIA and the Oyo state Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, in providing healthcare opportunities to public school children in the state. “This event is a collective effort in securing a brighter future of Oyo State pupils,” he said. The Deputy Governor also charged OYSHIA to double its efforts in extending the scheme to every school in the State, urging parents and guardians to key into the scheme. In her goodwill message, the Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, Ms. Celine Lafoucriere, noted that the launch of the Oyo State Public Primary School Pupils Health Insurance Scheme, will give access to affordable, quality healthcare; a fundamental right for every child. “This initiative reinforces our collective commitment to universal health coverage, ensuring that no child faces financial obstacles to accessing healthcare”, she said. “Universal health coverage is more than a healthcare goal—it’s a social and economic necessity. When children have access to healthcare, they can focus on education, grow into productive adults, break the cycle of poverty, and contribute to the success of Oyo State and Nigeria.” “This scheme exemplifies this by focusing on public primary school children, especially in hard-to-reach areas. With 90 schools already enrolled across 18 LGAs, our goal is to ensure all 33 LGAs in Oyo state are covered, leaving no child behind.” “UNICEF remains steadfast in supporting the government and communities toward universal health coverage.” The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi applauded OYSHIA and OYOSUBEB for their commitment towards healthy basic school pupils. She assured the agencies of her Ministry’s unparalleled commitment to the scheme. Also speaking, the Executive Chairman, OYOSUBEB, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran applauded OYSHIA, pledging the Board’s commitment to the smooth take-off and sustainability of the scheme. Adeniran said, “At OYOSUBEB, we operate on the principle of taking care of the pupils under our care as though they are ours”. Dr. Adeniran added that the scheme would enable the beneficiaries to receive quality healthcare without paying exorbitantly to access it. Earlier, the Executive Secretary, OYSHIA, Dr. Olusola Akande said the new door being opened today, is focusing on providing access to healthcare for 10,000 public primary school pupils in the first instance. Dr. Akande noted that the agency will also commence an enrollment of additional 5,500 pupils into the scheme from next week. The Executive Secretary applauded UNICEF, through whose support the Agency has been able to improve on its awareness campaign and increased the communities under Community Based Health Insurance scheme by 100 percent. He equally stressed the unparalleled commitment of SUBEB chairman to the scheme. “His open door policy and unrestricted access ensured we were able to keep to our time line”, he said. The event was attended by relevant stakeholders in the health and education sectors, including the pupils.
Oyo Govt Begins Distribution Of Motorcycles To Agric Extension Officers
Oyo State Government has begun the first phase of distribution of motorcycles to Agricultural Extension Officers across the state as a demonstration of its determination to boost agricultural extension services in the state. Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, who gave out 15 motorcycles to the agricultural extension officers on Tuesday, noted that they serve as links between researchers and farmers. According to him, extension officers play a critical role in the dissemination of innovations and technologies to small holder farmers to enhance productivity and improve farmers’ standard of living and ensure food security in the state. He explained that the Governor Seyi Makinde administration will focus on addressing some of the pressing challenges facing agricultural extension services, including systemic decline driven by several key factors. He said: “I am highly delighted to welcome you to the distribution of BAJAJ motorcycles to Officers/Extension Agents in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Agricultural Extension Officers (Agents) are the link between the researchers and the farmers. They play a critical role in the dissemination of innovations and technologies to the small holder farmers, which will invariably increase their productivity and improve their standard of living and ensure food security in the state. “Therefore, the Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, approved the purchase of BAJAJ motorcycles for the Agricultural Extension Agents in the state to enhance agricultural extension service delivery. “You will all agree with me that one of the most pressing challenges facing the Agricultural Extension Officers is the systemic decline, driven by several key factors which include critical shortage of Extension Agents due to retirements without adequate replacement. “Other factors are young people’s reluctance to pursue careers in agriculture and entrepreneurship, lack of sufficient training and professional development of extension agents and lack of proper transportation resources, making it difficult for them to reach and serve farmers in remote villages. “In ameliorating the observed challenges, the present administration has embarked on programmes, projects and provision of manpower, including this distribution of BAJAJ motorcycles that we are witnessing today. “Other interventions include: Start Them Early Programme (STEP) to encourage agricultural interest in secondary school students being replicated in eight zones of Oyo State. The government just concluded the recruitment of 161 officers across cadres in the Ministry. “Last year, we also embarked on the training of 131 Extension Agents across the 33 LGAs and LCDAs on the use of digital applications to measure farmland under the 50 per cent tractorisation subsidy programme of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER). “Also, we embarked on the 50 per cent tractorisation subsidy programme under SAfER where 1,487 farmers benefited, and a total of 6,009.4083 acres of land was ploughed throughout the state. “On this note, I have the singular honour and privilege to implore the beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity to bridge the gap between researchers and farmers to boost food production, improve livelihoods and promote sustainable agricultural service delivery.” Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Abosede Owoeye, noted that the distribution of the motorcycles to Agricultural Extension Officers across the state would serve as tools of transformation, as they will be able to access remote farming communities more efficiently, respond promptly to farmers’ needs and also deliver timely agricultural advisory services. She appreciated the dedication and steadfastness of the Extension Officers in the state for their contribution and achievement in the 50 per cent tractorisation programme of the state government under the SAfER programme in 2024. She urged them to ensure improved agricultural extension service delivery in the state. Speaking on behalf of the Agricultural Extension Officers, Mr Akanbi Ademola thanked Governor Makinde for improving the agriculture sector and promised to complement the efforts of the state government to ensure food security in the state.