Aare Afe Babalola rewards outstanding farmers with cash and announces a new Ekiti Farmers House to boost modern agriculture.
The Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, has announced ambitious plans to establish an Ekiti Farmers House to promote large-scale and productive modern farming across the state.
The announcement was made on Saturday in Ado Ekiti during the 2026 Afe Babalola Agricultural Expo, an annual event that brings together agricultural producers from all sixteen local government areas of the state.
According to information published by punchng, the initiative aims to make agriculture popular and rewarding, while combating the trend of youths abandoning farming for white-collar and menial jobs.
Establishment of Ekiti Farmers House for Modern Equipment
The proposed Ekiti Farmers House will feature a dedicated secretariat for member meetings and allied matters, serving as a central hub for the agricultural community in the region.
In partnership with the state government and the sixteen local government areas, the facility will acquire modern farm implements, including ridgers, ploughs, and harvesters, to rent to farmers at low rates.
Aare Afe Babalola explained that this scheme will enable farmers to easily hire agricultural machinery to engage in productive modern farming, encouraging more people and university graduates to embrace the sector.
Cash Rewards and Youth Empowerment Initiatives
As part of his ongoing support for local agriculture, the ABUAD founder presented substantial cash rewards to outstanding farmers from across the state during the event.
The overall best farmer in Ekiti State received a star prize of N2m, while the best three farmers in each of the sixteen local government areas shared a total of N350,000 in prize money.
Additionally, two youths from each local government area who completed training in plantain chips production, packaging, and marketing received equipment to start their businesses.
Monarch and Committee Praise Agricultural Vision
The Oore of Otun Ekiti and Paramount Ruler of Mobaland, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, lauded the ABUAD Chancellor for his consistent encouragement of farmers and his impact on the national economy.
The monarch emphasized that food security is vital for a wealthy nation, describing the event theme of AI for every farmer as an apt guide for modern development.
The Local Organising Committee Chairman, Prof Abiodun Ojo, also praised the initiative, noting that the annual expo has transformed into a powerful platform for sustainable agricultural growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Aare Afe Babalola?
Aare Afe Babalola is the Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, an elder statesman, and a passionate farmer who actively promotes agricultural development in Ekiti State.
What was the theme of the 2026 Afe Babalola Agricultural Expo?
The theme of the 2026 expo was AI for every farmer, focusing on farming smarter, producing more, and earning better through modern technology.
What is the purpose of the proposed Ekiti Farmers House?
The Ekiti Farmers House will serve as a secretariat and partner with local governments to acquire and rent modern farm implements to farmers at low rates for large-scale production.
How much did the overall best farmer win at the expo?
The overall best farmer in Ekiti State received a star prize of N2m, courtesy of the ABUAD Chancellor.
