Ajimobi to boost Oyo economy through agric

GOVERNOR Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has lauded the foresight of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in establishing the Fasola Farms in Oyo even as he promised that his administration would use agriculture as a catalyst for the economy of the state.

The governor, who spoke at the weekend during a working tour of the farms located in Oyo-West Local Council, also declared his administration’s commitment to making life worth living for rural dwellers in Oyo.

Accompanied by members of the State Executive Council (SEC), Governor Ajimobi said his government would ensure provision of social amenities such as potable water, rural electricity and establishment of farm settlements. While expressing worries at what he called the gross under-utilisation of the farms, he pledged that his administration would re-energise them and make them to function at full capacity.

“There is no doubt that Fasola Farms is an asset to Oyo State. But it has been utilised at only 20 per cent of its capacity. This is another symbol of degradation and below zero performance of the past administration. But we have told the management that we must run it as a business; this is not a Red Cross Society”, he said.

According to a statement, the governor, who commended the management of the farm for keeping it going despite its many constraints, directed it to furnish him with a feasibility report that would indicate the input required and the output expected from the farm.

“We must commend the foresight of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo for the establishment of this farm. It is not only an asset but also a blessing to Oyo State. It has indeed stood the test of time”, he remarked.

The governor was taken on an assessment tour of the farm by the supervisor, Mr. Kayode Hamzat.