The Ona-Ara Local Government Council has successfully hosted the second edition of the Ona-Ara New Era Food Day, an initiative of the Executive Chairman, Dr Temitope Kolapo Glorious, aimed at promoting affordable food, empowering farmers, stimulating local commerce and strengthening food security.
The programme which was held on Tuesday attracted farmers, market leaders, traders, government officials and community stakeholders in a collective effort to bridge the gap between producers and consumers while making essential food items more accessible and affordable to residents.
The initiative also showcased the impact of Governor Seyi Makinde’s economic development agenda in promoting grassroots development, supporting agricultural productivity and creating opportunities for economic growth at the local government level.
Building on the Chairman’s ongoing support for farmers through grants, food grains and other agricultural interventions, the Food Day provided a platform for beneficiaries to demonstrate the impact of the assistance received and contribute to the well-being of the wider community.
In appreciation of the council’s support, participating farmers and traders brought their produce and goods to the council-sponsored event, offering them to residents at relatively affordable prices. The gesture underscored the spirit of partnership between the local government and the agricultural community.
The New Era Food Day represents a practical response to the rising cost of food and prevailing economic challenges. By creating a platform where farmers and traders sell directly to consumers, the initiative helps reduce market intermediaries, encourages local trade and improves access to essential commodities.
Beyond affordability, the programme promotes cooperation among farmers, market associations and the local government, reinforcing agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and community development. It also provides local farmers and small-scale traders with opportunities to showcase their products and reach more customers.
Speaking on the significance of the programme, Hon. Taiwo Akeem Oke, Full-Time Commissioner of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission and former Executive Chairman of Ona-Ara Local Government, commended the massive turnout, describing it as a positive indication of the initiative’s relevance and acceptance among residents.
Hon. Oke applauded the initiative, noting its potential to support farmers, promote affordable food, stimulate economic activities and improve residents’ welfare.
He also commended Dr Glorious for his commitment to introducing programmes that bring tangible benefits to the people, highlighting the importance of purposeful leadership and sustainable grassroots initiatives in addressing economic challenges.
The second edition attracted several notable personalities and government officials, including Hon. Mufutau Ogunremi, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Financial Secretary of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), Oyo State; Hon. Windapo Oluwole, Vice Chairman and Political Head of Inukan Local Council Development Area (LCDA); Hon. Babatunde Sunmonu, Secretary to the Local Government; Hon. Isiaka Arinola, Chief of Staff; and Hon. Abolade Yerima, Leader of the House, alongside councillors, supervisory councillors, special assistants and other council functionaries.
Also present were the Babaloja, the Iyaloja, market men and women, farmers, traders and other community stakeholders.
Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration among government officials, market leadership, agricultural producers and community representatives in advancing food security and grassroots economic development.
The successful hosting of the second edition reaffirms the local government’s commitment to people-oriented initiatives that directly benefit residents, particularly farmers, traders and households affected by rising food costs.
It also reflects the broader importance of Governor Makinde’s policies in creating an enabling environment for local initiatives that support agriculture, encourage enterprise and promote economic opportunities.
As Ona-Ara Local Government continues to pursue grassroots development, the New Era Food Day remains an important platform for promoting agricultural productivity, supporting local businesses, encouraging affordable food distribution and improving access to essential commodities.
