The Oyo State Government has launched a training programme for 140 youths in tractor operation, as part of its broader strategy to promote mechanised farming and reduce youth unemployment across the state.
The training, which commenced on Monday at the Ido Local Government Secretariat for participants from the Ibadan/Ibarapa zone, was formally declared open by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye.
Olaleye said the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to comprehensive youth empowerment, agricultural modernization, and food security.
“This programme is designed to equip young people with the technical skills necessary to replace the ageing workforce of tractor operators, thereby ensuring continuity and efficiency in mechanised tillage operations,” he stated.
Strategic Impact on Agriculture and Employment
The Commissioner explained that the initiative will directly support Oyo State’s tractorisation programme, with the goal of significantly improving agricultural productivity throughout the state.
“Through this training, we are creating sustainable pathways to meaningful employment and economic independence for our youth—both in rural and urban areas,” Olaleye added.
He emphasized that the training is not just about acquiring technical skills, but is a strategic investment in the state’s long-term agricultural development and food security.
“By bridging the skills gap in tractor operation, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable mechanised farming, which is essential for increased yields, efficient land use, and long-term food security,” he said.
Training Structure and Safety Standards
Participants will be trained on the principles and practices of mechanised farming, with a strong emphasis on safe, efficient, and productive tractor operation. The programme also includes the distribution of safety gear such as jumpsuits, gloves, boots, and helmets to ensure training is conducted under the highest safety standards.
Outstanding trainees will have the opportunity to undergo apprenticeship placements with members of the Tractor Owners Association and established tractor hiring companies, providing real-world experience and potential job placements.
Olaleye urged participants to take the training seriously, highlighting that the skills gained would open doors to personal and economic growth.
“This programme prepares you not only for employment but also to contribute meaningfully to the economic development and prosperity of Oyo State,” he told the trainees.
Expansion Across Zones and Participants’ Reactions
The training is also taking place simultaneously in two other zones: Oke-Ogun and Oyo-Ogbomoso, covering a broad geographical area to ensure statewide impact.
Some of the participants expressed gratitude to the government for the opportunity. Hammed Oladapo noted that trained tractor operators are in high demand and said the programme would help him secure employment. Idowu Babatunde said learning to operate a tractor had long been his aspiration, while Muyiwa Ibikunle shared that the training would support his plans to venture into mechanised farming.
State’s Broader Agricultural Vision
This training programme is part of a larger agricultural transformation agenda in Oyo State. Just last month, the government announced that 3,000 hectares of land at the Ijaiye Farm Settlement had been earmarked for a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone and a Rungis-style wholesale food market.
According to Dr. Debo Akande, Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), the initiative is expected to revolutionize agriculture in the state and provide farmers with greater value for their investments.
