Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations to advance food security, youth empowerment, and land reforms across the state.

The governor gave the assurance on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Akure, while receiving the FAO Representative in Nigeria and to ECOWAS, Dr. Hussein Gadain, who led a delegation on a courtesy visit to his office.

Aiyedatiwa commended the progress recorded since the partnership commenced in July 2024, particularly FAO’s technical support in providing Geographic Information System (GIS) tools for forest mapping, advocacy programmes, and farmers’ training. He noted that his administration was ready to provide further support through land allocation for farmers, increased youth involvement in agribusiness, and dedicated budgetary provisions for agricultural projects.

On the challenge of limited land for farming, the governor emphasised the establishment of land allocation committees at the local government level as a strategic solution to encroachment and land grabbing.

“Land remains a very scarce factor of production. Many established farmers want expansion, while new entrants are also seeking access. With local government committees handling land allocation, we can guarantee ownership, reduce disputes, and secure land for genuine farmers,” he explained.

He also highlighted the need to deliberately engage the younger generation in farming, recalling the “Youth on Ridges” initiative of the previous administration, which provided land for young farmers. “Most of our farmers are ageing, and we must begin training younger ones now before the older generation retires,” he added.

Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed delight at the new funding opportunities disclosed by FAO, saying such interventions would open fresh avenues for agricultural growth, job creation, and food security in the state.

In his remarks, FAO Representative, Dr. Gadain, appreciated the government and people of Ondo State for their cooperation and reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting the state’s agricultural transformation agenda.

He explained that the visit was aimed at reviewing ongoing projects and identifying new areas of collaboration in line with Ondo State’s priorities in food security, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and natural resources management.

According to him, Ondo is currently benefitting from two major FAO projects: the GEF7 Food Systems, Land Use and Restoration (FOLUR) initiative, implemented in Ondo and Cross River States; and the GEF7 Biodiversity Project, which covers Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Ogun States. The latter focuses on biodiversity conservation, forest restoration, and support for rural livelihoods.

Dr. Gadain further revealed that FAO had already restored over 3,800 hectares of degraded forests in Ondo and was preparing to deliver an additional one million seedlings to support agroforestry initiatives. He also listed other interventions, including the establishment of a GIS laboratory, revival of agricultural extension services, introduction of farmer field and business schools, and solar-powered nurseries with the capacity to produce two million seedlings.

“These interventions are aligned with the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation and will not only improve food security but also create jobs, boost export opportunities, and strengthen ecosystem services in Ondo State,” Gadain said.

The meeting was attended by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and several commissioners, alongside the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agric and Agribusiness, Chief Wemimo Akinsola.