Ondo Flags Off Distribution of 70 Motorcycles to Boost Agricultural Extension Services
Ondo state governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa has flagged off the distribution of 70 motorcycles to agricultural extension officers in a move aimed at strengthening food security and improving service delivery to farmers across the state.
The initiative, implemented through the Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in collaboration with the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, was unveiled on Thursday at the ministry’s ADP building.
Ayedatiwa while speaking at the ceremony described the gesture as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and empowering personnel who serve as a link between government programmes and rural farmers.
He noted that agriculture remains the backbone of Ondo State’s economy, employing thousands of residents and sustaining rural livelihoods, but stressed that its growth depends largely on effective support systems, particularly extension services.
According to the governor, the lack of mobility has over the years hindered extension officers from reaching farmers in remote communities. He said the provision of motorcycles would significantly improve their efficiency, enabling them to cover more areas, respond quickly to challenges, and deliver modern farming techniques and climate-smart practices directly to farmers.
“This initiative is part of our broader vision to modernise agriculture and transition our farmers from subsistence to commercial production,” Ayedatiwa said, adding that efforts are also underway to encourage youth participation in agriculture as a viable career path.
He urged beneficiaries to use the motorcycles responsibly and strictly for official duties, noting that the success of the programme depends on their commitment.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, described the intervention as a major step towards strengthening extension services and improving livestock productivity in the state.
Akinola said the motorcycles would enhance access to hard-to-reach farming communities and serve as “instruments of transformation” for extension agents tasked with disseminating innovation and improved practices.
He added that the L-PRES project is designed to boost livestock production, build resilience among farmers and create sustainable livelihoods, in line with the state government’s agenda on food security and agricultural development.
The commissioner commended the governor for his continued support for the agricultural sector, while also charging extension officers to ensure proper use and maintenance of the motorcycles, noting that their deployment would be closely monitored.
The event marks another step by the Ondo State Government to strengthen its agricultural value chain and improve productivity across rural communities.
