“…where a vision is set in motion for a prosperous tomorrow”
In a landmark initiative aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and rural prosperity—and in alignment with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s shared prosperity agenda—the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, FCPA, has empowered local cashew farmers through the distribution of 1,000 hybrid polyclonal cashew seedlings to accredited beneficiaries from Iyemero, Itapaji, Oke Ayedun, Esun, Ipao, Oke Ako, Ijowa, Irele, Odo Ayedun and Ayebode Ekiti respectively.
The initiative was executed in partnership with PRO-Cashew West Africa under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), with the goal of enhancing productivity and profitability in cashew farming—making the business more rewarding for grassroots farmers.
Speaking during the free distribution event, Prince Ogungbemi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to “securing tomorrow through the actions we take today.” He explained that the cashew empowerment program is designed to improve food security, increase farmers’ income, and position Ajoni LCDA as a major player in cashew production in Ekiti State.
The Chairman expressed deep gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his consistent support and funding of grassroots initiatives, especially those promoting rural economic development. He also encouraged farmers to support the Governor’s re-election bid in the upcoming June 20th Governorship Election, to enable him consolidate the achievements of his administration through to 2030.
Earlier, the Director of Agriculture, Mr. Makinde, conducted a technical session with the beneficiaries, where he trained them on modern planting techniques required to achieve optimal yields from the hybrid seedlings.
Olusola Ajisola, a beneficiary from Odo-Ayedun, speaking on behalf of other farmers, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman for extending the specialty hybrid seedlings to their community, noting that the initiative would significantly boost their productivity and improve their livelihoods.
Prince Ogungbemi highlighted that this marks the second phase of the Cashew Empowerment Programme in Ajoni LCDA, which has now covered 90 beneficiaries across 10 communities. He described the initiative as a strategic program designed to lift cashew farmers from poverty to prosperity.
“This represents another milestone in the Ogungbemi-led administration,” he stated, “reflecting our unwavering dedication to agricultural development, economic empowerment, and sustainable growth across Ajoni LCDA.”
