Ondo Unveils NG-CARES Impact Report, Records N3bn Support for Over 30,000 Beneficiaries
Date : 17th December,2025
By Olusegun HOSEA, Akure.
Ondo State Government on Tuesday presented the Impact Assessment Report of its Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme, revealing that more than 30,000 farmers, agro-processors and vulnerable households have benefited from over ₦3 billion in targeted agricultural and livelihood interventions across the state.
The report, which covers key activities implemented under Result Area 2 of the NG-CARES Programme from 2022 to date, was formally unveiled at a stakeholders’ forum held at Royal Bird Hotel, Alagbaka, Akure.
Accountability and Evidence-Based Governance
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Leye Akinola, described the presentation of the report as a demonstration of the state government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and data-driven policy implementation.
He commended the Ondo State Fadama Coordination Office for its professionalism in coordinating the programme and documenting its outcomes, noting that monitoring, evaluation and learning remain critical tools for sustainable development.
According to Akinola, NG-CARES was introduced at a period of severe economic disruption to cushion the effects of shocks on farmers, small businesses and vulnerable groups, adding that the programme has since restored hope and strengthened community resilience across Ondo State.
Livelihood Support and Economic Impact
The Commissioner disclosed that interventions under Result Area 2 have significantly boosted agricultural productivity, food security and local economic activities. Beneficiaries include smallholder farmers, agro-processors, women and youth groups, micro-entrepreneurs and vulnerable households.
He said the programme has contributed to poverty reduction, job creation, improved incomes and stronger agricultural value chains, while also promoting social inclusion and community participation.
Complementary Agricultural Investments
Akinola highlighted other achievements of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, including the attraction of a multi-million-naira Agricultural City project to Iju-Agbonrin/Ori-Ohin in Ose Local Government Area through the FRILIA initiative, driven by KONIG Agriculture Limited.
He also announced plans to revive the Akunnu Cattle Ranch, ongoing construction of modern livestock markets in Akure, Owo and Ondo City, establishment of veterinary and cold-chain facilities, pasture demonstration farms, and capacity-building programmes for farmers and livestock workers.
The commissioner further disclosed that over 44,000 cattle, sheep and goats have been vaccinated against anthrax in a statewide exercise aimed at safeguarding public health.
Infrastructure and Grassroots Reach
Earlier in his welcome address, the Administrative Secretary and State Fadama Project Coordinator, Mr. Olusiji Olatunji, said the impact assessment was deliberately conducted to objectively measure social and economic outcomes and guide future policy decisions.
He revealed that over 5,000 beneficiaries received production inputs across cassava, rice, maize, fish, poultry and vegetable value chains, while more than 5,400 farmers benefitted from production assets and equipment.
Olatunji added that all 18 local government areas benefitted from rural infrastructure interventions, with over 200 kilometres of farm access roads rehabilitated and three landing jetties constructed in riverine communities to improve market access and economic activities.
Commitment to Food Security and Resilience
Both speakers reaffirmed the commitment of the Ondo State Government, under Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to sustaining and scaling up programmes that enhance food security, livelihoods and inclusive economic growth.
Stakeholders were urged to study the findings of the report and support initiatives aimed at building a resilient, prosperous and food-secure Ondo State.
