The Ekiti State Government has distributed farm inputs worth N57.6 million to rice farmers in the state.
Speaking at the ceremony in Ado-Ekiti, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources Mr Babajide Arowosafe said the State Government was distributing the inputs as loan- in-kind to the rice farmers to be paid back after harvesting their crops.
The Commissioner disclosed that about 1000 hectares of land have been cleared and prepared for the rice farmers to promote the food crop this current farming season adding that plans are on to further increase the number of hectares set aside for rice production in the state.
The State Government is taking these steps in readiness for the proposed ban on importation of rice by the Federal Government expected to take effect in 2015.
The Commissioner informed the rice famers that the N57 million spent on the farm inputs include the cost of fertilizers, seeds and agrochemicals.
Mr. Arowosafe urged them not to abuse the privilege saying government is out to encourage massive rice production noting that the gesture would enable them have a bountiful harvest .
While pointing out that that food security was of paramount importance to the administration of Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the commissioner assured the farmers that the state Government will assist them in finding market for their products.
While appreciating Government on behalf of other beneficiaries, Chief Solomon Jayeola, a rice farmer from Ikere commended Governor Fayemi for putting smiles on the faces of farmers since he became the Governor.
Chief Jayeola called on the Governor to provide nets for the rice famers to prevent birds from destroying their rice seeds as being practised in overseas countries.
He requested for more tractors to clear more lands for them to enable them have enough land to cultivate.
Last modified: June 24, 2012
