Adeleke Highlights Gains in Agriculture, Says Osun on Path to Economic Diversification

Adeleke Highlights Gains in Agriculture, Says Osun on Path to Economic Diversification

By Richard Akintade, Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded in the agricultural sector over the past three years, citing significant expansion in cocoa, cashew, and oil palm production across Osun State.

The governor made this known after receiving a comprehensive report on the agro-sector as part of an ongoing sectoral review of his administration’s performance since 2023. The review follows earlier assessments of achievements in road and sports infrastructure.

According to Adeleke, the state’s cocoa expansion initiative has recorded notable success, with over 400,000 cocoa seedlings planted since inception. He noted that the seedlings were distributed to farmers at highly subsidised rates, adding that the programme is positioning Osun to reclaim a leading role in cocoa production ahead of other major producing states

He further disclosed that the initiative is being strengthened through efforts to establish agro-processing infrastructure aimed at developing the cocoa value chain and boosting economic returns.

In the cashew sector, the governor revealed that about 80,000 seedlings have been planted within the same period, describing the project as a “game changer” capable of increasing output to meet both local and international demand.

Similarly, he announced that 60,000 oil palm seedlings have been planted as part of a broader strategy to diversify the state’s agricultural base and position it as a hub for key cash crops.

Highlighting efforts to improve mechanised farming, Adeleke said his administration procured 31 tractors, which are currently deployed across the state’s 30 local government areas and area council. He noted that the tractors, provided to farmers at subsidised rates, have collectively cultivated 4,511 acres of farmland since 2025.

The governor acknowledged that plans to expand the fleet to 117 tractors were affected by financial constraints but maintained that the existing equipment has significantly improved farming activities.

He also noted that farmers have benefited from multiple rounds of agricultural inputs distributed since the beginning of his administration, reiterating his government’s commitment to supporting the farming community.

Adeleke expressed appreciation to the Osun State Farmers’ Association for endorsing his re-election bid, describing his administration as one that prioritises agricultural development and farmer welfare.

Adeleke Highlights Gains in Agriculture, Says Osun on Path to Economic Diversification