Oyo State Government trains 250 retirees in agricultural practices and micro-livestock management to boost food security and provide alternative income, with commitments for ongoing support and farming inputs
The Oyo State government has trained approximately 250 retirees and intending retirees in agricultural practices and micro-livestock management.
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This initiative, held on Wednesday at the local government hall, Secretariat, Ibadan, is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance food security within the state.
Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, the Head of Service, emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
She noted that Oyo State is blessed with fertile land and a favorable climate, offering vast opportunities for agricultural productivity.
According to Oni, the training aims to equip participants with knowledge on alternative sources of income for their retirement years.
Highlighting both 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 even small-scale initiatives, including backyard gardening and snail farming, have the potential to grow into medium-scale enterprises with consistent effort and adequate support.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy. She noted that Oyo State is blessed with fertile land and a favorable climate, offering vast opportunities for agricultural productivity.
Speaking on the various efforts of the current administration, led by Engr. Seyi Makinde, to revamp agricultural practices and enhance food security, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, revealed several key initiatives. He noted that 161 agricultural officers have been recently recruited across all cadres.
The Commissioner also highlighted other support systems for farmers in the state, including a 50% subsidy on tractorization, the provision of motorcycles to Agricultural Extension Officers to improve outreach services, and the distribution of various agricultural inputs to farmers.
He assured participants that the government plans to provide necessary farming inputs to those who express interest in agricultural ventures, as needs arise.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, reiterated that agriculture is a key pillar of economic diversification and sustainability.
She further noted that following the training, the Ministry intends to equip participants with the tools needed to explore practical, low-risk agricultural enterprises that are economically viable.
Mrs. Owoeye explained that the training would expose retirees to various opportunities, such as the “Every Home a Garden” initiative and micro-livestock farming, which includes snail, rabbit, and Noiler chicken rearing, among other promising ventures.
The initiative was officially announced by Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Oyo State, on June 5, 2025.
