The Ogun State Government in partnership with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN), have ploughed 4,500 hectares of land at Aworo-pedepo Ilara in Yewa-North Local Government Area, for production of long staple cotton.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Adeola Odedina who made this known during an inspection tour to the farmland, revealed that the cultivation was in addition to the 10,000 hectares of land previously provided by the State government for cotton production in Iwoye-Ketu, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area
He added that the cultivation was aimed at creating minimum of 14,000 jobs, for applicants through the State's jobs portal.
Odedina said that the Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration remained committed to creating jobs, through partnership with organisations to fulfill its agricultural agenda
The Commissioner disclosed that the State in conjunction with NACOTAN had established Gateway Cotton Processing Limited with 20 percent shares, and procured 18 new tractors to enhance mechanisation of the farming activities.
His words,"Cotton grown in Ogun State has a high premium in the world, because of the quality of soil and favourable weather. Government will provide free extension services to farmers to ensure best agricultural practices in the production process of cotton that will be cultivated here".
Also speaking, the Regional Manager of Arewa Cotton, Mr. Adebayo Olayemi, expressed satisfaction at government gesture, saying with the large expanse of land, provision of tractors and high-quality seeds, the plantation would be fully mechanised.
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