The Ondo State Government has called on youths in the state to take advantage of its poultry empowerment initiative, describing it as a genuine effort aimed at building sustainable livelihoods.
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Agriculture and Agribusiness, Mr Rotimi Akinsola, made this known on Wednesday during the graduation ceremony of the first batch of beneficiaries held in Isuada, Owo Local Government Area.
Akinsola explained that the programme, tagged Adiye Irorun, was designed for 75 unemployed youths across the state and featured a six-week paid training in poultry production. He stated that the initiative was created to give participants hands-on experience while also supporting them financially throughout the training period to help them smoothly transition into business owners.
According to him, the graduation of the first batch was a clear sign that the programme was genuine, adding that all beneficiaries were paid for their services and could now act as ambassadors to encourage other young people to participate.
He further disclosed that participants from other parts of the state would graduate in the coming weeks, noting that the main goal was to help them achieve financial independence and establish their own poultry farms.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Samuel Ajewole described the programme as impactful and youth-driven, while Akinsola presented cheques worth N8.5 million to participants for their services.
