The Kwara State Government has stated that it is prepared to encourage all-year farming activities in order to ensure massive food production in the state.

The announcement was made by Malam AbdulLateef Alakawa, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, while receiving the leadership of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineering (NIAE) in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The Commissioner stated that the state has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable commercial agriculture and mentioned that the vision was already being implemented in Kwara.

Alakawa observed that agricultural engineers have crucial roles to play towards developing agriculture in the state.

He said: “The role of agricultural engineers in food production and its value chain in the country is crucial. As a state, we have taken steps to develop the capacity of stakeholders in the sector such as engineers and extension officers. Also, the commissioner said that the state government had procured two new bulldozers and 15 tractors to promote mechanization, we will soon inaugurate irrigation equipment,” he assured.

Alakawa added that as part of its Farm Kwara Initiative, the state government had cleared 100 hectares of land at Agbeyangi, Ilorin East Local Government Area, and an additional 500 hectares of land at Adanla, Ifelodun Local Government Area.

According to him, the state government has shown willingness to partner relevant stakeholders in the implementation of its policy on sustainable agriculture.