Advancing Oyo State: Agriculture and Practical Skills Can Move Us Forward; Barrister Morohunkola Thomas says
In a recent interview on Honor FM 103.5, former Commissioner emeritus and the current SA Socio-Economic Development, Director General of the Oyo State Mobilization Agency for Socio-economic Development, Barrister Dr. Morohunkala Thomas shared his insights on the growth and development of Oyo State.
The discussion, hosted by Yusuph Sekinat Abosede on the program Àjorò, focused on critical issues such as preserving traditional values, enhancing agricultural practices, and equipping the youth with practical skills. The Director General also stressed the importance of effective information dissemination to ensure that government initiatives reach the people who need them most.
The Director General who also double as the SA on Socio-Economic Development began by underscoring the importance of preserving traditional values in Oyo State. He emphasized that while progress and modernization are crucial, it is equally important to remain grounded in the cultural values that define the state. “Our traditional values are the backbone of our society. They guide our actions and decisions, and we must preserve them even as we embrace growth and development,” he stated.
The Director General pointed out that government initiatives, such as the distribution of fertilizers, often do not reach the people who need them the most because of inadequate communication.
He cited the example of rural farmers who could greatly benefit from government-provided fertilizers. However, if they are not informed about the availability of these resources, they are unable to take advantage of them. “If the government distributes fertilizers but the rural farmers don’t know about it, how will they get it? Information is key, and we must ensure that it reaches every corner of the state,” he emphasized.
For the Mobilization Agency to deliver maximum results and service to the people, the Director General stressed the importance of having a deep understanding of the people’s needs. He spoke about the agency’s efforts to employ individuals from the grassroots level, including those who may be uneducated but possess wisdom and a deep understanding of their communities.
“We are making sure that we employ people who truly understand the needs of their communities. This includes individuals from the grassroots level, who may not have formal education but have the wisdom and experience to make a difference,” he explained. By doing so, the agency aims to ensure that its initiatives are well-targeted and effective.
Agriculture was another key focus of the interview. The Director General, Dr Morounkola Thomas encouraged the people of Oyo State to engage in farming, even on a small scale, by growing crops in their backyards. He emphasized that agriculture is a means of livelihood and also a way to ensure food security and sustainability within the state.
“Agriculture is vital to our state’s economy and to our survival as a people. I encourage everyone to start small, even if it’s just by growing crops in your backyard. Every little bit helps,” he urged.
In addition to agriculture, he highlighted the importance of practical skills, especially for the youth. He encouraged young people to attend technical colleges under the Ministry of Education to learn useful hand skills that can lead to gainful employment. “Our youth need to learn practical skills that will prepare them for the job market. Technical colleges offer the training they need to acquire these skills,” he said.
The Director General expressed his gratitude to His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE for his support in providing the resources needed to carry out the agency’s work. He mentioned that the governor has supplied the agency with buses, computer equipment, and other essential tools that have enabled them to function effectively.
“We are fortunate to have a governor who understands the importance of our work and provides us with the resources we need. Governor Seyi Makinde has been instrumental in our success, and we are grateful for his continued support,” he stated.
In his concluding remarks, the Director General reiterated his commitment to transparency and public engagement. He assured the people of Oyo State that the agency would continue to work closely with the press to keep the public informed about their activities and to ensure that everyone enjoys the benefits of democracy.
“We will continue to carry the press along in all our activities. It is important that the people are informed about what we are doing and how we are working to improve their lives.
We are committed to ensuring that everyone enjoys the dividends of democracy,” he concluded.
Egalitarian Dig. Com.
Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez codenamed IJOBA AUTHORITY MOE Dynasty writes ✍️ from the home of Generals Ibadan North East World Chairman/Head Youth Media Campaign for GSM Re-election Bid 2023
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