The Oyo state government has trained about Two Hundred and fifty (250) retirees in agricultural practices and Micro-Livestock Management.
The training, held at the local government hall, Secretariat, Ibadan on Wednesday also had in attendance some intending retirees in the Oyo State civil service.
According to the Head of service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, the training is part of the government’s efforts to enhance food security.
Oni stated 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.
She said that the training would equip them 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 present administration under the leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde to revamp agricultural practices and enhance food security, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, revealed that 161 agricultural officers have been recruited across all cadres.
He also highlighted initiatives such as a 50% subsidy on tractorization 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 is designed to encourage them to consider agriculture as a viable post-retirement venture. He assured that the government will provide necessary farming inputs to those who express interest, as needs arise.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye, emphasized that agriculture remains a key pillar of economic diversification and sustainability.
She further noted that following the training, the Ministry will equip participants with tools to explore practical, low-risk agricultural enterprises that are economically viable.
Mrs. Owoeye 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.
