NDLEA, Foundation Intensify Campaign Against Illicit Farming In Ondo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Flight Lieutenant Ohai Prosper Idonije Foundation (FLPOIF) have intensified efforts to discourage illicit farming and promote lawful agricultural practices in rural communities across Ondo State.

The sensitisation programme, held in Eleyowo Community in Akure North local government area of the state, focused on encouraging women to influence their husbands, sons and relatives to abandon illegal cultivation and embrace legitimate farming opportunities under the NDLEA Alternative Development Programme.

At the programme, the head of Alternative Development Unit, NDLEA Ondo State Command, Julius Oyebode, commended the community for its commitment to the initiative.

“We are impressed with the level of cooperation from this community. Among the three communities involved in the programme, Eleyowo has shown remarkable commitment,” he said.

Oyebode said the programme was designed to help families transition from illicit farming to lawful agricultural activities, stressing that women have critical roles to play in sustaining the campaign.

“You women are very important in the family. You can influence your husbands and children to stop what is wrong and embrace what is right. We know it is not easy to stop something that once brought money, but there will be light at the end of the tunnel,” he added.

Also, the Ondo State Coordinator of FLPOIF, Aizohi Gbadamosi, urged women in the community to support their husbands and sons during the planting season and resist any temptation to encourage a return to illicit farming.

According to her, many families are currently facing financial difficulties after disengaging from illegal cultivation, noting that patience and support from women would help sustain the transition to licit farming.

“To enjoy the benefits of lawful farming, we must all comply with the guidelines put in place by the NDLEA. This is a pilot project in Nigeria and the women must work together with their husbands to ensure its success,” she said.

Similarly, the Olu of Eleyowo, Oba Adesina Agunbiade, described the programme as impactful, saying it had restored peace to the community. He noted that the poultry and pepper farming initiatives introduced to residents were already yielding positive results.

In his remark, a resident of the community, Gladys Joseph, expressed appreciation to the NDLEA and FLPOIF for supporting the community through the farming season, noting that residents no longer live in fear since embracing lawful agricultural practices.