Kwara State Govt Engages LG Chairmen In Strengthening Rural Agricultural Development
By Tunde Akanbi, Ilorin
In a strategic move to advance agriculture in Kwara State, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Alabi, has initiated direct engagement with Local Government Chairmen to ensure the full realization of the agricultural agenda of the state Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
At a high-level meeting held at the office of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abubakar Bata, Dr. Abolore emphasized the need for closer collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and local government leadership, ensuring that agricultural interventions reach the grassroots, where they are most needed.
He acknowledged the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRazaq in transforming Kwara’s agricultural sector.
“His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has set a clear direction for agriculture in Kwara State, making it a pillar of economic growth and food security. Our task at the Ministry is to ensure that this vision is fully executed—bringing real impact to rural farmers and strengthening agricultural productivity across the state. This synergy with local governments is critical to achieving that goal,” he further stated.
The Commissioner also assured that all agricultural inputs, funding, and government interventions will be delivered directly to the intended beneficiaries, eliminating leakages and inefficiencies.
As part of his commitment to grassroots engagement and transparency, Dr. Abolore announced an imminent statewide tour of all Local Government Areas (LGAs).
According to him, the tour is aimed to build direct relationships with rural farmers and agricultural stakeholders, ensuring that government policies and interventions are shaped by the realities on the ground.
He called on the Chairmen to support the Ministry’s field teams, ensuring that government initiatives are executed without obstruction at the local level.
In his remarks , the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abubakar Bata reaffirmed that agriculture is a top priority of the Kwara State Government, applauding Dr. Abolore’s proactive approach in fostering direct collaboration with local government leaders.
He urged the Commissioner to work closely with the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Kwara State chapter, at the local government level to further strengthen agricultural programmes.
On behalf of the Local Government Chairmen, Abubakar Abdullah, Chairman of Kaiama LGA and ALGON Chairman in the State, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely and strategic move to bring agricultural interventions closer to the people.
He pledged the full support of local councils, assuring that all information and directives from the Ministry will be properly communicated and implemented at the grassroots level.
In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Funke Sokoya commended Dr. Afees Alabi for his decisive leadership and commitment to ensuring a direct working relationship with grassroots leaders.
She acknowledged Governor AbdulRazaq’s dedication to agriculture and food security in Kwara State and assured that the Ministry will translate this vision into tangible benefits for farmers and rural communities.
Mrs. Sokoya further noted that Local Governments play a vital role in diagnosing community needs, emphasizing that harmonization between the Ministry and LGAs is essential for a more efficient and responsive agricultural structure.
She assured that under Dr. Abolore’s leadership, the Ministry will intensify collaboration with local governments, ensuring that policies and interventions truly benefit grassroots farmers.
Oyenike Oyeniyi
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