Ogun to partner stakeholders on Ofada rice

Ogun State is to partner relevant stakeholders to promote the planting and abundant production of Ofada, a specie of rice peculiar to the state.

Government’s decision was made known in Onidundu, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state, during an official inspection of a 45-hectare Ofada rice plantation, facilitated by the Agbeloba sub-sect of the state chapter of Rice Farmers Association (RIFAN).

Ronke Sokefun, state commissioner for agriculture, who was represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Lanre Bisiriyu, stated that “Ofada rice is more nutritious when compared with other imported brands and has become an acceptable food among Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora.”

Sokefun observed that if the dream of enhancing its production was achieved, the living standard of Ofada rice farmers would be improved and the money spent on rice importation would be channelled to other rewarding ventures.

The commissioner commended the sub-sect of the association for establishing the 45-hectare plantation manually, and appreciated the efforts of the Agbeloba sub-sect of RIFAN, Ogun State chapter in the establishment of such a large expanse of Ofada rice plantation manually.

“I know it couldn’t have been easy and I assure you of government’s readiness to support local farmers, particularly those who have shown dogged determination like yourselves,” she stated. Addressing challenges highlighted by the farmers, she stated that government had continued to encourage inter-ministerial collaboration to take care of the issues raised and ensure that more dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.

She said the state government would continue to take advantage of all Federal Government packages for the development of agriculture, adding that “let me inform you that this government encourages inter-ministerial collaboration to find solutions to such issues that you have mentioned.

“Be assured that prompt steps would be taken to liaise with relevant ministries, agencies and parastatals saddled with the responsibilities of meeting these challenges.”

Earlier, chairman of RIFAN in the state, Bode Adenekan disclosed that although only 45 hectares of land had been cultivated by the farmers manually, a land mass of 2,000 hectares was available in the area for rice cultivation, adding that it was suitable for planting lowland, mini upland and upland rice all year round.

RAZAQ AYINLA, Abeokuta