The Ogun State Government has officially launched an aquaculture harvest in the Ilaro Zone, aimed at enhancing food security and reducing food prices across Nigeria. This initiative is part of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), which provides vital resources to local fish farmers, including feed support.
Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving food access. He stated, “This harvest is supported by the state government under the OGSTEP program. The farmers received 72 bags of feed, with the state discounting 30 percent of the cost.” This assistance aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s vision to increase food availability and affordability.
Owotomo highlighted the efforts of 350 fish farmers in the Ado-Odo/Otta Local Government Area, who are now positioned to offer their fish at lower market prices. “They have assured us that they will be selling their fish in the market below the current food price,” he noted.
He further explained that the OGSTEP, programme aims to enhance agricultural infrastructure and promote employment opportunities. “This programme supports all agricultural value chains, including rice, cassava, and livestock, and is designed to cut production costs, increase youth employment, and boost market supply,” he said.
Dr. Oluseyi Olugbire, the OGSTEP Project Manager for agriculture, described the structured approach of the initiative, which organizes farmers into clusters for more effective support. “We have over 350 ponds in this area, and through OGSTEP, we link farmers with development firms to operate collectively,” he explained. This collaboration enables farmers to create business plans and agreements with off-takers, ensuring stable markets for their produce.
Fish farmers have received essential training, resources, and discounts on feed, allowing them to establish sustainable practices that contribute to the state’s food supply chain. Oluwatoyin Aribanusi, a beneficiary from the Ewupe cluster, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We thank our Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for the discounts on feed, which has greatly improved our fish farming.”
However, she raised concerns about flooding affecting their farms, appealing for improved drainage systems: “We have lost a lot of capital due to flooding, and we would appreciate it if the governor could assist.”
The harvest launch included visits to Ijako Fish Farm, Ewupe Isorosi Fish Farm, and Anisere Fish Farm in Otta, showcasing the positive impact of the initiative on local aquaculture.
