To further support food security and mechanised agriculture, we launched a tractorisation subsidy scheme. Instead of purchasing tractors that often become moribund from neglect, we opted for a more sustainable approach. We are paying matching funds to private tractor leasing companies, with farmers contributing counterpart funds to access the scheme. This way, the government avoids the burden of maintaining equipment, and smallholder farmers receive the support they need. The private companies involved in the scheme also receive continuous patronage to keep them in business.

We have shifted from a purely public-sector agriculture development model to a private-sector-driven model with public-sector support. This approach is the hallmark of sustainable economic development. Government-owned assets inevitably become moribund because the government has no business in business. All over the world, governments are adopting this model, leaving business to the private sector while providing the necessary support to help them become major employers and contributors to economic security.

The continued growth of the Oyo State economy confirms that this model will lead us out of our economic doldrums. By following this model, we can raise revenue to meet our obligations of providing social benefits to our people, including small businesses and smallholder farmers who are struggling due to the volatility of our economy.

As you may already know, we are giving ourselves 18 months to complete the Ibadan Airport project. Our vision for a re-engineered Oyo State is taking shape, and I continue to thank the good people of Oyo State for all their support.

Talk to you again soon.