Oyo State Government Calls for Revitalization of Seed Sector

The Oyo State Government has identified low-quality seeds as a critical challenge hindering agricultural development in the state. This was emphasized by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, during a meeting with key stakeholders in the seed sector.

In a press release signed by Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, on January 27, 2025, Barrister Olaleye stressed the importance of quality seeds as the foundation of agricultural productivity and a key driver of farmers’ success. He warned that if the issue of substandard seeds is not addressed, it could undermine efforts to position agriculture as a major source of income for the state.

The Commissioner revealed that the Oyo State Seed Coordinating Committee (OYSSCC), alongside other stakeholders in the agricultural sector, held its inaugural meeting to strategize on the introduction of improved seed varieties to farmers. This initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity and enhance food security in the state.

It is noteworthy that the OYSSCC was re-inaugurated on October 15, 2024, by Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration. The committee, composed of both public and private sector stakeholders along the agricultural value chain, is tasked with diversifying the state’s economy, improving food security, creating jobs, and determining the state’s seed requirements, among other responsibilities.

Barrister Olaleye urged committee members to commit to their duties in reshaping the future of the seed sector, which, he noted, is vital to achieving enhanced agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. He commended Governor Makinde for his visionary leadership in agricultural development, highlighting programs such as the *Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery* (SAfER), launched in 2023, which has improved farmers’ welfare and enhanced economic growth.

The Commissioner also noted the ongoing distribution of hybrid seeds—including tomato, bell pepper (bawa), hot pepper (tatase), chili (rodo), okra, amaranth (tete), and celosia (soko)—alongside liquid fertilizers to arable farmers in all 33 local government areas of the state. These efforts, he said, demonstrate the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sector.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye, described the meeting as a significant step in addressing food security challenges in Oyo State. She stressed the need to act swiftly in improving crop and livestock seed quality to boost agricultural production and agribusiness.

The Oyo State Government reaffirmed its pledge to create an enabling environment for the seed committee and other stakeholders to achieve their objectives and deliver meaningful results for the agricultural sector.