Ondo capable of feeding the nation – Agric Commissioner, Akinola

The new Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry in Ondo State, Engr. Olaleye Akinola, has said the state has the capacity to feed the entire nation if residents embrace the ongoing farming revolution.

“Let us all go back to the farm. Everyone should cultivate a piece of land, no matter how small. It starts with being able to feed yourself, your family, and then the community,” he said.

Engr. Akinola made the statement while assuming office on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, during a welcome reception at the Ministry of Agriculture. The ministry’s staff, led by Permanent Secretary Chief Segun Odusanya, officially received the commissioner.

With passion and a clear vision, Akinola pledged to usher in a new era of agricultural advancement built on innovation, mechanization, and strategic partnerships.

Chief Odusanya acknowledged the pressing challenges facing the ministry — including food insecurity, forest degradation, outdated farming practices, and the climate crisis — but expressed confidence in the new commissioner’s ability to address them.

“Mr. Governor promised us the best among the new appointees, and he delivered. From his experience to his leadership qualities, we believe Engr. Akinola is the right man to transform this ministry into a beacon of progress,” Odusanya said.

In his response, the commissioner highlighted his commitment to developing both short- and long-term strategies aimed at making Ondo State the agricultural hub of the South West and Nigeria at large.

“If we’re serious, Ondo State can feed the South West and even the nation. But it won’t happen with hoes and cutlasses. We must embrace mechanization and technology. There’s no AI food — we must return to the land. Agriculture is survival,” he declared.

Akinola also revealed that he had met with the Commissioner for Health to align agricultural policies with the state’s “Our Ease Agenda” — a government framework aimed at enhancing food security, well-being, and economic development.

He stressed that his administration would focus on various areas, including cocoa revitalization, expansion of arable and cash crops, animal husbandry, wildlife conservation, and forest regeneration.

Encouraging youths and professionals to engage in agriculture, Akinola assured them of access to resources, training, and partnerships that would make agriculture a profitable venture rather than a burden.

At the event, Mrs. Christiana Omolola Akinola, the commissioner’s wife, thanked Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for the appointment. She described her husband as a result-driven leader who would not settle for less than excellence.

Hon. Princess Aderonke Stella Oluyede, Deputy Speaker representing Ogbese Ward, and several All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders and chieftains from Akure North accompanied the commissioner as he officially resumed duties.

As Akinola settles into his new role, optimism is high that Ondo State is poised for an agricultural resurgence powered by bold leadership and community involvement.

Meanwhile, Pastor Jesufemi Oluwadare, in his congratulatory message, described the appointment as a reflection of Akinola’s deep commitment to humanity and state development.

“As you assume office, I pray for wisdom and strength. I am confident that your leadership will usher in positive change, growth, and lasting impact for the people of Ondo State,” he stated.