The Technical Adviser to Ekiti State Governor on Green Economy and Ecological Management, Dr Akinyemi Akinyugha has said that the Administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji would continue to support initiatives that would propel the State to the forefront of a climate-resilient, agroforestry sector in Ekiti.

Dr Akinyugha made the pledge in Ado-Ekiti during the Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative (ASCI) scoping meeting with the theme: “Positioning Ekiti for a deforestation-free production”, organized by Ekiti State Government with the support of Propcom+, a UK Government initiative supporting climate and growth by addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges.

Dr Akinyugha noted that the workshop which was facilitated by ProForest is aimed at supporting farmers and institutions in Ekiti State to adopt and scale agricultural practices that will not only increase productivity and climate resilience but reduce deforestation & emissions whilst protecting natural ecosystems.

According to Akinyugha, the gathering marked a significant step towards reinforcing Ekiti’s commitment to building capacity of smallholders and commercial agricultural ventures to access premium global export markets, whilst promoting responsible environmental stewardship.

Group and Africa Regional Director of ProForest, Abraham Baffoe in a 26-slide presentation, sensitised key stakeholders at the meeting about the African Sustainable Commodities Initiative as well as the requirements for Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certification. He noted that the meeting amongst other things underscored the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in promoting sustainable practices.

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The forum saw Commissioners for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade and his Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives counterpart, Mrs Tola Adeola as well as the Chairman, Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Barr. Iyabo Fakunke Okeiemen delivering keynote remarks.

The Agriculture and food security Commissioner highlighted Government’s commitment to support cash crops producers in clusters to integrate climate smart practices for greater productivity and ecosystem wholeness.

Representatives of key stakeholders from government, private sectors as well as NGOs were present at the meeting including top officials of the Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, Ministry of Environment, State Forestry Commission, Ministry of Trade, Investment, Industry & Cooperatives, Bureau of Lands Services, Palm Oil and Cocoa Producers Association as well as people from the academia/researchers, members of the Tree Growers Association and independent/small holder farmers.