The Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Mr Samuel Abejide says Ekiti can no longer afford to farm only during the rainy season if it must conquer hunger and create wealth.
Abejide represented by the permanent secretary Mr Rotimi Akomolede, threw the challenge on Wednesday in Ado-Ekiti while declaring open a 2-day workshop for Local Government Agricultural Officers on “Dry-Season Farming for Food Security and Economic Empowerment.” 
The workshop, was organised by the Local Government Service Commission for Directors and Deputy Directors of Agriculture across all Local Governments and LCDAs.
According to the Chairman, food prices and cost of production are biting hard on households, and the only way out is to produce food all year round.
“Dry-season farming provides an opportunity for our farmers to continue production beyond the conventional farming season. With appropriate irrigation and improved techniques, we can significantly increase food availability,” Abejide said.
He listed crops that can thrive in dry season to include vegetables, maize, rice, cassava, fruits, plus livestock and agro-processing activities.
“It is therefore important that we begin to view agriculture not merely as a subsistence activity but as a viable economic enterprise capable of creating wealth and improving the standard of living of our people,” he charged.
Mr Abejide added that dry-season farming will put more money in farmers’ pockets, create jobs for young people and women, and stimulate local economies.
The Chairman described Local Government Agricultural Officers as the most strategic link between government and the grassroots.
“You are closest to the farming communities and understand their challenges. You must promote irrigation, water management, improved seeds, and sustainable practices,” he told them.
He commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his unparalleled investment in human capital development in the local government system.
Responding on behalf of the participants, Mr Adebayo Oladele director of agric thanked the Local Government Service Commission for organizing the timely training.
He assured that the knowledge gained will be stepped down to farmers at the local government level.
Oladele said the training was coming at a very appropriate time as the state approaches the dry season, noting that it is the best time to refresh their memory on dry-season farming techniques.
He expressed hope that the efforts of the resource persons will not be in vain and appreciated the Commission for the opportunity.
Omolara Oladija
Director information LGSC
