Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated the state’s commitment to leveraging modern technology to enhance food production and support farmers. Speaking at the launch of a free anthrax vaccination campaign organized by the L-PRES project in Akure, the governor emphasized the administration’s dedication to addressing food insecurity and boosting productivity through innovative farming techniques.
Aiyedatiwa highlighted that the 2025 Appropriation Law, dubbed the ‘Budget of Recovery,’ allocates significant resources to the agricultural sector. This budget is designed to fulfill the promises made to the people of Ondo State during the election period and to drive sustainable food security and economic development. The governor assured that the budget will be implemented with responsibility, efficiency, and transparency, underscoring the importance of agriculture in achieving these goals.
The governor’s remarks come at a critical time as the state grapples with the recurring threat of anthrax outbreaks. Anthrax, a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, poses significant risks to both livestock and humans. The disease has been a persistent challenge, with recent outbreaks in Zamfara State serving as a stark reminder of its potential impact. The governor noted that vaccination is a crucial preventive measure, and Ondo State has incorporated annual anthrax vaccination into its 2025 budget, ensuring that the livestock industry is protected against future outbreaks.
Mrs. Foluke Tunde-Daramola, the Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, echoed the governor’s sentiments. She emphasized the importance of the L-PRES project in supporting the state’s efforts to combat anthrax. The ministry has been actively involved in the project’s activities, ensuring that Ondo State benefits from its initiatives. Tunde-Daramola urged livestock farmers to take advantage of the two-week free vaccination exercise to protect their animals, highlighting that vaccination is the most economical and effective measure to prevent anthrax deaths among livestock and the subsequent transmission to humans.
The implications of these developments are significant. By embracing modern technology and prioritizing disease prevention, Ondo State is taking proactive steps to secure its agricultural sector. The free anthrax vaccination campaign not only protects livestock but also safeguards the health of farmers and the broader community. This initiative, coupled with the state’s commitment to agricultural development, positions Ondo State as a leader in addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable economic growth.
