Ekiti farmers back proposed farm summit, hail Oyebanji

Farmers in Ekiti State have expressed support for the proposed Ekiti Farm Summit, describing it as a timely initiative capable of repositioning the state’s agricultural sector, while congratulating Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his re-election and commending Dr. Oluwatosin Ademola Ojo for his contributions to agricultural development.

The farmers, under the aegis of the Ekiti Farmers Forum, said the proposed summit would provide a platform to address challenges confronting farmers, attract investment into agriculture and promote food security across the state.

They described Governor Oyebanji’s re-election as a demonstration of the confidence reposed in his administration by the people, expressing optimism that his second term would further strengthen policies aimed at transforming agriculture and rural development.

The group also lauded Dr. Ojo for his sustained support for farmers through the Dr. Ademola Ojo Farming and Feeding Initiative and the Sade-Ademola Foundation, noting that the interventions had improved access to basic agricultural inputs and enhanced farming activities in the state.

According to the farmers, the initiatives have contributed to increased productivity and are expected to boost harvests and improve the livelihoods of farming communities.

They stressed that sustained support and strategic interventions in agriculture remained essential to achieving food security, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in Ekiti State.

The forum urged governments, development partners and other stakeholders to continue prioritising agriculture, describing the sector as the backbone of the state’s economy.

It also called on Ekiti indigenes in the diaspora to emulate Dr. Ojo, who is Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, by supporting initiatives that promote agricultural development and empower local farmers.

The farmers pledged support for President Bola Tinubu and candidates of the APC in Ekiti State ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence in the party’s commitment to advancing agricultural development and improving the welfare of citizens.