Ogbeni Seun Ogunniyi, the member representing Ojomu-Balogun Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, has called for measures to curtail the influence of middlemen in the food supply chain to reduce the cost of food items in Kwara State.
Ogunniyi made this call following the motion titled "Need To Mobilize For Increased Agricultural Productivity And Subsistence Farming In Agrarian Communities And Address Other Challenges Facing The Agricultural Sector For Enhanced Food Security In Kwara State," which he moved and was seconded by Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon (Edu). The motion was co-sponsored by Hon. Bello Yinusa Oniboki (Afon) and Hon. Muhammed Baba Salihu (Okuta/Yashikira).
In his address, Ogunniyi highlighted Kwara State's rich agricultural resources and strategic location, positioning it to be a leading food producer in Nigeria and West Africa. He noted that rural residents traditionally practiced subsistence farming to meet their immediate family needs before modern large-scale agricultural practices were introduced.
However, he expressed concern over the shift towards modern lifestyles and the resulting rural-urban migration, which he believes have led to a neglect of traditional farming practices. He also pointed out that food insecurity in the state has been exacerbated by middlemen who profit from acting as intermediaries between primary producers and consumers, without adding any real value to the supply chain. This practice, he argued, results in higher food prices for consumers.
Other members of the Assembly also contributed to the discussion, leading to a series of resolutions:
During the session, the House commended the Governor for his unwavering commitment to agricultural development. This dedication is evident in recent initiatives such as the payment of the counterpart fund for the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), supported by the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, the distribution of farm inputs to farmers across the state under the Input Support for Cluster Farmers Scheme has been well-received, among other initiatives.
The legislators urged the state government to intensify efforts to eliminate security threats throughout Kwara State, allowing farmers to concentrate on their agricultural activities without fear. This, they argued, would significantly enhance food security within the state.
The Assembly also recommended that the Governor direct the Ministry of Agriculture to explore the possibility of introducing subsidies on pesticides, herbicides, and other essential farm inputs. By reducing the costs of these inputs, the state can promote large-scale crop cultivation and ensure the availability of food across Kwara.
Furthermore, the House called for necessary measures, in consultation with traditional and community leaders, to regulate and curtail the excesses of middlemen who profit as intermediaries between primary producers and consumers. By addressing this issue, the state can help reduce food prices for consumers.
Lastly, the legislators encouraged all Kwarans to utilize every available space, such as backyards and unused lands, for subsistence farming. This initiative aims to counter the escalating costs of food items. Additionally, they suggested that interested farmers organize themselves into clusters to benefit from collocation and shared services, further supporting food security efforts in the state.
This comprehensive approach aims to enhance food security in Kwara State by addressing both production challenges and market dynamics, ensuring that the benefits of agricultural productivity reach all residents
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