Oyo State has emerged as a leading hub for agricultural innovation and food security in Nigeria, thanks to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s forward-thinking policies and strategic investments in the sector.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, during the opening session of an inter-ministerial press briefing to mark the second anniversary of the Omituntun 2.0 administration.
Speaking at the event, which was organised by the Governor’s Media Unit, Olaleye credited Governor Makinde’s comprehensive approach to agricultural development — combining infrastructure renewal, mechanisation, human capital development, and regulatory reforms — as the key driver behind the state’s remarkable progress.
“Under Governor Makinde’s leadership, agriculture has moved from subsistence to a strategic economic pillar in Oyo State,” the Commissioner stated. “Our programmes are not only boosting food production but also creating jobs, attracting investments, and positioning Oyo as a model for others.”
One of the flagship initiatives is the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub, which has become a magnet for investors and a model endorsed by development partners, including the African Development Bank. Olaleye said the hub reflects the administration’s broader success in driving innovation and attracting critical private sector partnerships.
The commissioner revealed that the state had made significant strides in livestock protection, with over 95,948 cattle vaccinated against major diseases, reaching 80% of its target. Oyo has also put in place regulatory frameworks for hatcheries, poultry processors, and livestock trade — setting new standards in animal health and food safety.
In rural development, Olaleye highlighted the construction of over 87.5 kilometers of farm access roads across several local government areas, enhancing logistics and market access for farmers. Additionally, the state’s Tractorisation Subsidy Programme has already supported over 2,800 farmers in 2025, with more than 13,000 acres of farmland ploughed, and plans underway to reach 120,000 acres.
The Ministry also recorded impressive outcomes in extension services, recruitment of technical personnel, and support for smallholder farmers. Over 3,500 farmers received soft loans, while thousands were provided with seeds, animal feed, inputs, and equipment to improve productivity.
The Commissioner noted that 62 young rural farmers were trained in modern agriculture practices at the Oyo State-IITA Youth Agribusiness Incubation Centre in Awe and allocated land to apply their skills, underscoring the state’s commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development.
“We are building an agricultural ecosystem that is resilient, innovative, and inclusive,” Olaleye added. “Our achievements are a reflection of Governor Makinde’s vision, the dedication of our team, and the collaboration of stakeholders, including development partners, farmers, and the private sector.”
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, commended the public and the media for their continued support of the Makinde administration. She reiterated the government’s commitment to policies that serve the best interests of the people.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said the inter-ministerial briefing was organised to provide transparency and ensure that the public is informed of the administration’s achievements over the past two years.
