The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on the Federal Government to adopt and replicate the Agbeyewa Farms agricultural model across Nigeria as a sustainable solution to insecurity and youth unemployment.
The monarch made the appeal during the 3rd Annual Traditional Rulers’ Retreat held in Ikogosi, Ekiti State, where discussions centered on economic transformation through agricultural development.
According to the Ooni, the Agbeyewa Farms initiative in Ekiti North Senatorial District has significantly contributed to job creation and reduced criminal activities in surrounding communities. He noted that large-scale agricultural investment has transformed previously vulnerable areas into hubs of economic activity.
The traditional ruler stressed that unemployment remains one of the major drivers of insecurity in the country, arguing that creating structured economic opportunities for young people would reduce the appeal of criminal activities.
He commended the promoters of Agbeyewa Farms for investing in agriculture and empowering local communities through employment and value chain development. The monarch emphasized that productive use of land resources can serve as a powerful tool for national development and youth empowerment.
The Ooni further urged government authorities, traditional rulers, and private sector players to collaborate in scaling similar agricultural projects across regions battling insecurity. He maintained that sustainable economic initiatives remain key to achieving long-term peace and stability.
The Agbeyewa model, which focuses on large-scale cassava cultivation and value addition, has become a notable example of how agricultural investment can stimulate rural development while addressing broader socio-economic challenges.
Observers say the call reflects growing recognition of agriculture as a critical pathway to strengthening food security, creating jobs, and reducing insecurity nationwide.