… multi million Naira equipment expected to strengthen the state’s agricultural value chain.

The Government of Japan has donated multi-million Naira modern farm equipment to rice farmers in Ekiti to boost production and reduce post-harvest losses.

The equipment, comprising two combine harvesters and six power tillers, was presented to members of Anuoluwapo Cooperative Society in Aisegba, Aiyekire Local Government Area.

In his remarks at the event,the Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, said the intervention would enhance mechanised farming and strengthen the state’s agricultural value chain.

Boluwade, represented by the Director of Agricultural Services, Mr Olajide Ojo, attributed the initiative to the development-oriented policies of Gov. Biodun Oyebanji.

He reiterated the administration’s commitment to positioning Ekiti as a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The donation was facilitated by the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria under the leadership of Ambassador Hideo Suzuki.

Speaking at the event, a representative of the ambassador, Ms Wakana Deguchi, said the donation was made under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

Deguchi explained that the project, implemented by the New Initiative for Social Development (NISD), was designed to promote mechanised farming and improve food security.

She commended the farmers and the state government for their commitment to agricultural development, noting that the equipment would significantly boost rice production and reduce harvest losses.

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According to her, the initiative aligns with Japan’s broader support for Nigeria’s economic development through community-based interventions.

A representative of NISD’s Executive Director, Mrs Oluwaleke Ruth, described the donation as a demonstration of strong partnership and commitment to grassroots development.

She noted that the intervention reflected a clear understanding of the challenges faced by rural farmers and commended the Ekiti State Government for providing an enabling environment for the project.

Also speaking, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatubosun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Adesola Fadiran, lauded the initiative.

He assured that the equipment would be properly maintained for optimal productivity.

In his remarks, the Ekiti State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) Manager, Mr Bamidele Adegbola , said the beneficiary cooperative was selected based on its organisation and capacity to effectively utilise the equipment.

The Regent of Aisegba-Ekiti, High Chief Bodunde Eegunjobi, expressed appreciation to the Japanese and Ekiti State Governments for the gesture and urged the farmers to make judicious use of the equipment