By Faridat Salifu
The Oyo State Government has launched a training programme for 140 young people in tractor operations as part of efforts to boost mechanised agriculture across the state.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said the initiative, which kicked off with a four-day session at the Ido Local Government Secretariat in the Ibadan/Ibarapa zone, is designed to build a new generation of skilled tractor operators.
He explained that the programme will help replace the ageing workforce in the sector, improve agricultural productivity and create job opportunities for young people.
Participants were provided with safety kits, including overalls, gloves, boots and helmets, to ensure adherence to safety standards.
Top performers will also secure apprenticeships with members of the Tractor Owners Association of Nigeria and established tractor-hiring firms.
Olaleye said similar trainings will be conducted in Oke-Ogun and Oyo-Ogbomoso zones in the coming weeks.
Some beneficiaries, including Hammed Oladapo, Idowu Babatunde and Muyiwa Ibikule, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing it as a pathway into sustainable careers in mechanised farming.
In a related effort, the state has set aside 3,000 hectares at the Ijaiye Farm Settlement for a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone and a Rungis-style wholesale food market.
Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Debo Akande, said the initiative would transform agriculture in the state, giving farmers greater access to markets and better returns on their produce.