The Ondo State Government has distributed no fewer than 70 motorcycles to livestock extension agents under the Livestock Productivity Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, as part of efforts to strengthen agricultural service delivery across the state.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa flagged off the distribution on Thursday in Akure, noting that the initiative was aimed at enhancing food security and increasing agricultural productivity.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Segun Omojuwa, the governor described agriculture as a critical pillar of the state’s economy, stressing that improved support systems were vital for sustainable growth.
He explained that extension services play a key role in linking government policies with farmers at the grassroots, adding that poor mobility had long limited the effectiveness of officers, particularly in remote communities.
According to him, the provision of motorcycles would significantly improve outreach and efficiency.
He said, “The motorcycles will enable extension agents to access more communities, respond promptly to field challenges, and provide timely guidance on modern livestock and farming practices.
“This intervention aligns with our administration’s goal of transforming agriculture from subsistence to commercial scale, while also attracting more young people into the sector.”
Aiyedatiwa commended the L-PRES team and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for their contributions to strengthening agricultural value chains in the state.
He, however, cautioned beneficiaries against misuse of the motorcycles, emphasising that they were strictly for official duties and not for personal or commercial use.
The governor urged the extension workers to remain committed, noting that the success of the programme would depend largely on their dedication and proper utilisation of the equipment.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained investment in agriculture, improved access to farm inputs, and expanded support for farmers across the state.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, described the distribution as a major step under the L-PRES project to boost livestock production and strengthen farmers’ resilience.
He commended the governor for prioritising agricultural development, noting that the administration had created a conducive environment for impactful programmes to thrive.
Akinola added that the motorcycles would help address longstanding transportation challenges faced by extension officers, especially in hard-to-reach rural areas.
He said the project implementation unit would monitor the use and maintenance of the motorcycles to ensure accountability.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Foluke Tunde-Daramola, expressed appreciation to the governor and the L-PRES team, urging beneficiaries to make effective use of the equipment.
On behalf of the extension agents, Adelana Adebusoye lauded the government for the gesture, stating that it would significantly improve their capacity to deliver services.
The L-PRES State Project Coordinator, Olufemi Adeogun, also thanked the state government for its continued support towards the successful implementation of the programme.