Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has reaffirmed Ondo State’s commitment to agricultural development with the rollout of the Adiye Irorun agribusiness empowerment programme, to support poultry farmers and strengthen the state’s agribusiness sector.
The initiative targets youths and women engaged in poultry production, providing financial support, training, and farm inputs to improve productivity and livelihoods.
As part of the programme’s second phase, the state government is set to disburse over N15 million to beneficiaries.
The cheque presentation, organised by the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre, will take place at the Isuada Centre in Alagbaka, Akure.
Chairman of the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre, Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola, who spoke on behalf of the governor, said the programme aligns with the state’s OUR EASE development agenda, which prioritises agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and social development.
He disclosed that more than N15 million will be distributed in the second cycle of the programme, following an earlier disbursement of N8.5 million in the first phase.
The programme is being implemented across the three senatorial districts in the state to ensure inclusive participation and wider impact among farming communities.
Akinsola said beneficiaries undergo a structured process that includes screening, training in poultry farming, and hands-on experience at designated farm centres before receiving financial support.
“Each cycle runs for six weeks, during which participants engage in poultry production. Government provides inputs such as chicks, feed, medication and technical support,” he said.
He explained that the programme is designed to be sustainable, with proceeds from the sale of poultry used to recover production costs, while profits are shared among participants.
“This model ensures sustainability while empowering beneficiaries with income and practical skills,” he said.
According to him, the Isuada centre in Ondo North has completed its second cycle, while the Ore centre in Ondo South has completed its first cycle, with the second cycle already in progress.
He added that the Ondo Central centre is expected to begin operations soon.
The cheque presentation event is also expected to create awareness about the programme, highlight its impact, and encourage more residents to participate in agribusiness opportunities within the state.
Akinsola described the initiative as a practical model for youth empowerment, women inclusion, and poverty reduction through agriculture, particularly in poultry production.
He also highlighted the Eyin Irorun Programme, which complements the initiative by making eggs available to residents at subsidised prices, helping to improve food access while supporting local poultry farmers.
Source: The Nation
