Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has restated his administration’s dedication to advancing agriculture and supporting farmers through strategic partnerships and policies aimed at food security and rural development.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday when he received the leadership of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), led by its Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Adekanmbi, during a courtesy visit to his office in Akure.
Aiyedatiwa said the state is eager to collaborate with BORBDA in enhancing agricultural production, improving water resource management, and fostering youth involvement in agribusiness. He acknowledged that while River Basin Authorities have not fully met their founding goals, they still play a vital role in Nigeria’s agricultural and rural development agenda.
Commending the agency’s new management, the governor said he is confident in their ability to drive positive change. “Past administrations may have fallen short, but the agency’s continuity remains important. I appreciate your honest evaluation of the challenges ahead,” he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa revealed that the state is investing in initiatives to aid smallholder farmers, particularly through better access to inputs, irrigation, and infrastructure. He highlighted the impact of insecurity, especially in areas where herders have driven farmers off their lands, and said the government is exploring measures such as designated farming zones to resettle displaced farmers.
He also noted ongoing efforts to provide potable water to Akure and nearby towns through a World Bank-supported project, utilizing the Owena Dam, which was constructed by BORBDA. He thanked the agency for its role in that achievement and called for improved coordination with its state office.
The governor stressed the importance of resolving disputes around encroached lands belonging to BORBDA and said his administration is ready to engage traditional rulers and community stakeholders in dialogue to reclaim and utilize such lands productively.
Earlier, BORBDA Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Adekanmbi, described the visit as a return to familiar ground, recalling his time in the state executive council. He congratulated Aiyedatiwa on his electoral victory and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in the context of food security.
Adekanmbi highlighted the agency’s work in the state, including dam construction, erosion control, and flood channel projects. He noted that a significant portion of BORBDA’s nearly 5,000 hectares of arable land remains underutilized and appealed for the state’s intervention in land disputes, protection of assets, and completion of key infrastructure at the Owena Dam.
He also revealed plans to revive the Igbokoda Poultry House and proposed a collaboration with the state government and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) on a hydropower initiative at the multipurpose dam site.
Also present at the meeting were Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, and Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philip.
