Shepherd Agriculture, a Nigeria-based South African agricultural company, and the Ondo state government are going to establish mechanised farms in the state.

The N2.6-million investment forms part of the state government's resolution to increase food production and reduce unemployment.

Government has already set aside 500 hectares of land near the Owena Dam and 1 500 hectares at Owo. Shepherd Agriculture will be involved in the advancement of mechanised fruit farming, crop farming and the rearing of livestock. The cultivation of fruits like banana and pawpaw and crops like maize and cassava are high on the agenda.

Government has a 49% share in the project, Shepherd Agriculture has 36% and individual contributions amount to 15%.