Kakalistiq.com reports that applause echoed through the Council Chambers today as the Epe Local Government, led by Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, held an impactful Empowerment and Distribution of Cash Palliatives event for 200 farmers. This initiative, aimed at boosting food production, was met with widespread acclaim from the farming community.
During the event, Chairman Animashaun called on farmers nationwide to be considerate in their price setting, ensuring affordability for all Nigerians. “We are here to give them support for their business, that’s why we have initiated the second phase of the program,” she stated, referring to the previous disruptions at Oluwo Market. “With the economic situation now, we should be very reasonable in charging prices on their farm produce to make sure that it is convenient for our people to buy food.”
The empowerment package included 50,000 Naira cash for each of the 200 farmers, a strategic increase from the previous edition’s 100,000 Naira to 100 farmers. Alongside the cash, essential grains like maize and sodium were distributed to support their agricultural endeavours. “We will keep supporting them so that it will be more convenient for them to farm,” Animashaun emphasized.
The Chairman highlighted her administration’s ongoing efforts in rolling out palliative support across various sectors, including health and entrepreneurship. She urged the community to maintain harmony, love, hospitality, and compassion, particularly in the context of economic challenges.
Epe LG Vice Chairman, Hon. Sikiru Owolomoshe, speaking on the sidelines, praised the Chairman’s responsiveness to the farmers’ needs. “Take advantage of these materials and the cash to farm so that by the time we go round, we should see the advantage and it will encourage us to do more,” he advised the beneficiaries.
The President of the Epe Farmers Union, Alhaja Aminat Shabi, lauded the Chairman for her comprehensive support of the agricultural value chain, from fish farmers to livestock producers. “The palliative and cash is in support of our businesses, and we look forward to the 3rd phase where our farmers will exhibit their farm produce to unveil to the world that Epe is the food and fish basket of Lagos,” she said.
Acknowledging the inclusive approach of Chairman Animashaun, Alhaja Aminat noted, “She is the first chairman to recognize farmers irrespective of their tribal affiliation in Epe local government.”
Comrade Olayinka Kazeem, Secretary of Epe Farmers and a palliative beneficiary expressed his gratitude, stating, “This is the best time such program is coming because it is coming at a time that our nation is at a critical state when it comes to food availability.” He commended the Chairman’s initiatives for enhancing farming capabilities and addressing the recent Oluwo Cage culture disaster.
Ahmed Surakat, PRO of Lagos State Fishermen Cooperative Association, Mrs. Kafilat Animashaun, and other beneficiaries echoed these sentiments, extending their heartfelt thanks to the Chairman for her unwavering support.
The event concluded with a shared sense of optimism and gratitude, as farmers pledged to maximize the benefits of the support provided. With the promise of a third phase in the pipeline, Epe’s agricultural community stands poised for greater productivity and resilience, embodying the spirit of unity and progress championed by Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun.
