In a bid to unlock the vast agricultural potential of Ibarapa Land, Oyo State, a Civil Engineer and philanthropist, Bello Tunde Al-ameen, has collaborated with Seyi Tinubu to launch the ETB/Seyi Tinubu Empowerment Program. The program, which aims to encourage farmers, particularly youths, to engage in agriculture, was held on February 20th in Igbo-Ora, also known as the “Nation’s Home of Twins.”

Al-ameen, a native of Igboora, emphasized that agriculture is a cherished heritage in Ibarapa Land, with many successful sons and daughters trained from income generated from farming. The program’s main objective is to empower farmers, attract government agencies, and investors to explore the area’s agricultural potential.

The empowerment program featured lectures, exhibitions, and the distribution of agricultural resources, including knapsack sprayers and chemicals, to farmers. Al-ameen expressed his gratitude to Seyi Tinubu, Honourable Minister of Youth, Hon. Dayo Israel and other dignitaries for their support.

Hon. Dayo Israel, National Youth Leader of All Progressives Congress, commended the initiative, stating that agriculture is the new oil in Nigeria, and the tools provided will aid young farmers. “This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and community-driven development. I urge the beneficiaries to make the most of this opportunity and become ambassadors of agricultural excellence in Ibarapa Land,” he added.

Al-ameen, the Convener of the program, emphasized the importance of sustaining the initiative. “We plan to establish a monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure that the beneficiaries are utilizing the resources effectively. We will also provide follow-up training and support to enable them to overcome any challenges they may face,” he stated.

Engr. Yusuf A. Lanre from Ikorodu West LCDA commended the initiative, stating that “Agriculture is the way to go in Nigeria.” He praised Engr. Tunde, the convener of the program, for his vision and commitment to empowering youths in Ibarapa Land.

Engr. Lanre urged the beneficiaries of the program to make good use of the tools and resources provided, emphasizing the importance of agriculture in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria.

The ETB/Seyi Tinubu Empowerment Program is expected to contribute significantly to agricultural excellence and economic development in Ibarapa Land and Oyo State at large. With its vast agricultural resources, Ibarapa Land is poised to become a major agricultural hub, and this initiative is a step in the right direction.