The Oyo State government has begun training of 660 youths, women, and retirees on mushroom cultivation across all zones of the state.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye made this known on Friday while speaking with newsmen.
According to Olaleye who spoke through the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mrs Abosede Owoeye, the training of 660 in mushrooms cultivation is part of government’s efforts in ensuring food security.
He said that 1,290 farmers were equally receiving training in other agricultural programmes such as pasture establishment, management, conservation, and artificial insemination techniques.
“We are also training people on climate-smart agriculture, focusing on high-value crop production and effective weed management strategies.
“Training on Beekeeping practices; Shea butter production techniques, and training on Locust bean processing methods,” he said.
The commissioner said the training programme would enhance creation of a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that would boost food production in Nigeria.
Supreme news reports that Mushroom is the fruiting body of a fungus, typically produced above ground.
Mushrooms are a nutritious food source, rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
Some mushrooms have equally been found to have potential medicinal properties, such as antimicrobial, antiviral, and antitumor effects.
Mushroom cultivation provides a source of income for farmers, as it’s in high demand globally, providing export opportunities and foreign exchange earnings.