Oyo State Government has trained about 250 retirees in agricultural practices and micro-livestock management.
The training which held at the local government hall of the state secretariat in Ibadan, also had in attendance some prospective retirees in the state’s civil service.
According to the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, the training was part of the government’s efforts to enhance food security.
According to Oni, agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy; she noted that Oyo State was blessed with fertile land and a favourable climate, offering vast opportunities for agricultural productivity.
She said that the training would equip the beneficiaries with knowledge on alternative sources of income at retirement.
Highlighting the therapeutic and financial benefits of engaging in agricultural practices, the Head of Service encouraged retirees to explore ventures such as crop cultivation, poultry, aquaculture, and agro-processing.
She stressed that small-scale initiatives, including backyard gardening and snail farming, can grow into medium-scale enterprises with consistent effort and adequate support.
Speaking on the various efforts of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration to revamp agricultural practices and enhance food security, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, revealed that 161 agricultural officers have been recruited across all cadres.
Olaleye also highlighted initiatives such as a 50% subsidy on tractorisation for farmers in the state, provision of motorcycles to Agricultural Extension Officers to improve extension services, and the distribution of agricultural inputs to farmers across the state.
The commissioner further stated that the training of retirees and those nearing retirement in good agricultural practices was designed to encourage them to consider agriculture as a viable post-retirement venture.
He assured that the government would provide necessary farming inputs to those who express interest, as needs arise.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye emphasised that agriculture remains a key pillar of economic diversification and sustainability.
She noted that following the training, the Ministry will equip participants with tools to explore practical, low-risk agricultural enterprises that are economically viable.
Owoeye further said the training would expose the retirees to opportunities such as the ‘Every Home a Garden’ initiative, micro-livestock farming, including snail, rabbit, and noiler chicken rearing, and many more promising ventures.
