The Ogun State Agricultural Inputs Dealers Association (OGSAIDA) has inaugurated a new executive committee to steer its affairs for the next two years, emphasizing the need for robust collaboration with the government to enhance food security and promote healthy agricultural practices.
The inauguration, held in Abeokuta on Thursday, followed an affirmation and voice vote by members of the association.
The new executive, led by Chairman Eweoba Timothy Olusegun, outlined its commitment to empowering farmers, particularly in rural areas, with the knowledge and tools necessary for safe and efficient agricultural production.
Speaking to PLATFORM TIMES, Olusegun stressed the association’s mission to bridge the information gap in rural communities.
“Our plan is to ensure that farmers—who are the backbone of food production—receive proper training on the use of herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers,” he said.
He highlighted the association’s goal of ensuring that food produced in Ogun State remains safe and healthy for consumption.
However, he noted the need for government support, especially in reaching remote areas with vital agricultural information and resources.
“We appeal to the government to help us expand this initiative to underserved areas. This will enable farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices and ensure compliance with safety standards,” Olusegun added.
He also urged members of the association to remain law-abiding by adhering to government regulations against the sale of expired or banned chemicals.
Prince Olanrewaju Adeyinka, a retired Acting General Manager of the Ogun State Agro Services Corporation, lauded the association’s efforts in decentralizing the distribution of agricultural inputs.
Adeyinka who conducted the swearing in ceremony, noted that since the government stepped back from direct distribution in 2006, OGSAIDA has become instrumental in ensuring that farmers across the state have access to essential inputs, thereby boosting productivity.
“Without timely access to agro-inputs, farmers cannot achieve desired yields. This association plays a crucial role in filling the gap,” he said.
He advised the new executive to prioritize expanding their reach, particularly in the Ijebu area and Ogun East, and to strengthen collaborations with the Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders.
Adeyinka further emphasized the importance of complying with regulatory bodies like NAFDAC to prevent the circulation of substandard inputs.
Mrs. Oluwawemitan Patience, a member of the association and CEO of El-Shaddai Veterinary Services and Agro-Chemical Limited, described OGSAIDA as a vital link between farmers and the government.
She acknowledged the challenges posed by the recent ban on Paraeforce, a widely used herbicide, and urged the government to involve the association in research and policy discussions to find effective alternatives.
“Farmers need to understand why certain chemicals are banned and be educated on safe practices.
“This can only happen if the government strengthens its partnership with the association to reach the grassroots,” Patience said.
Alhaja Ibrahim Fausat, CEO of FAB Ayoka Agro Limited and Vice Chairman of OGSAIDA, emphasized the need for ethical practices among agro-dealers.
“My advice to members is to support farmers by refraining from selling fake or expired chemicals. This is crucial for the sustainability of our agricultural sector,” Fausat said.
She called on the government to integrate agro-dealers into state agricultural programs and encouraged Nigerians to embrace farming as a pathway to achieving national food surplus.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
