The Oyo State Government has launched the first phase of its motorcycle distribution initiative to Agricultural Extension Officers, reinforcing its commitment to improving agricultural services across the state.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, handed over 15 BAJAJ motorcycles to the officers on Tuesday, emphasizing their critical role as intermediaries between researchers and farmers. He noted that the extension officers are instrumental in disseminating innovative agricultural techniques and technologies to smallholder farmers, thus improving productivity, enhancing livelihoods, and ensuring food security.
Barr. Olaleye explained that the current administration, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, is committed to addressing several pressing challenges facing agricultural extension services. He highlighted systemic issues, such as the shortage of extension agents due to retirements without proper replacements, and the reluctance of young people to pursue careers in agriculture. He also noted the insufficient training and lack of transportation resources as barriers to effective service delivery.
“This intervention is part of our efforts to tackle these challenges. The distribution of motorcycles will help bridge the gap between researchers and farmers, especially in remote areas where the officers can now reach more communities and deliver timely agricultural advisory services,” Olaleye stated.
In addition to the motorcycle distribution, the government has also rolled out other initiatives to strengthen the agricultural sector. These include the Start Them Early Programme (STEP), aimed at fostering interest in agriculture among secondary school students, and the recruitment of 161 officers across various cadres in the Ministry of Agriculture
