The Ekiti State Government has approved a N7.6 billion contract, thus enabling the construction of a modern Indoor Sports hall.
Additionally, the government has allocated ₦2.2 billion specifically to clear 1,300 hectares of land for future developments.
This initiative aims to boost mechanized farming and strengthen food security across the state.
On Thursday, Commissioner for Information Taiwo Olatunbosun released a statement in Ado Ekiti.
He highlighted significant decisions made during the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting held the previous day.
He described the initiatives as part of the administration’s commitment to youth engagement, economic development, and agricultural sustainability.
Ekiti State Indoor Sports Hall Project
The contract for the Indoor Sports Hall, valued at N7,642,981,521.50, has been awarded to Messrs Aron Nigeria Limited.
The project is expected to be completed within 52 weeks.
According to Olatunbosun, the facility will provide a platform for Ekiti youths to participate in various sporting activities, fostering empowerment and community engagement.
“This project reflects our administration’s dedication to advancing sports and creating opportunities for young people in Ekiti State,” Olatunbosun stated.
Land Clearing for Mechanised Farming
In addition to the sports initiative, the EXCO approved N2.2 billion for a land-clearing exercise aimed at facilitating mechanised farming across 1,300 hectares of land. The project is expected to be completed within three months to enable crop planting within the current agricultural season.
The designated sites for land clearing include locations under the “Bring Back the Youth to Agriculture” initiative, such as Ose-Emure, Gede, Iyemero, Omuo Ekiti, Egbe Ekiti, Ayede-Isan, Ogotun Ekiti, and Ise Ekiti.
Other areas include Youth under Promise Point Partnership Farms in Iyemero and various farm settlements in Gede and Eporo.
Ekiti State Support for Agricultural Initiatives
To promote youth involvement in agriculture, the government approved a N144.3 million contract for customized working tools.
This investment aims to empower young individuals and foster their engagement in the agricultural sector.
The tools will specifically support participants in the “Bring Back the Youth to Agriculture” initiative, a collaboration with YSJ Farms Limited.
By partnering with this organization, the government enhances opportunities for the youth to thrive in farming.
Included in the customized tools are 902 sets of raincoats, rain boots, and various agricultural implements.
These supplies will equip young farmers effectively, enabling them to overcome challenges and succeed in their agricultural endeavors.
The initiative aims to empower youths and boost food production in Ekiti State.
“These efforts underscore our commitment to addressing food security challenges while creating economic opportunities for our young population,” Olatunbosun added.
The “Bring Back the Youth to Agriculture” program was launched to encourage youth participation in commercial agriculture and foster sustainable economic development across the state.
With these initiatives underway, the Ekiti State Government continues to demonstrate its focus on youth empowerment, sports development, and agricultural innovation as pillars of its governance agenda.