In a bid to elevate Oyo State to the forefront of agribusiness innovation in Sub-Saharan Africa, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his commitment to revolutionizing the agricultural sector. Emphasizing the importance of modernizing farming practices, Governor Makinde outlined his vision during the “Agribusiness for Food Security Initiative” event held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan.
The details of his remarks was captured in a press release made available to news men in Ibadan through the special adviser to the Governor on media, Mr. Sulaiman Olanrewaju after the summit.
Addressing attendees, Governor Makinde highlighted the imperative of leveraging Oyo State’s abundant arable land for accelerated economic development. He emphasized the need for innovative strategies and partnerships to drive agribusiness forward, recognizing the pivotal role of the private sector and development organizations in this endeavor.
Underlining the state’s progress in infrastructure development and security enhancement, Governor Makinde emphasized the necessity of attracting substantial investments to propel Oyo State’s agribusiness ambitions. He cited the ongoing development of the Fasola Industrial Hub as a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for agricultural growth.
Governor Makinde also acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), led by Dr. Debo Akande, in spearheading agricultural transformation initiatives. He underscored the agency’s contribution to driving increased productivity through the dissemination of high-quality seeds provided by institutions like the IITA.
Former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, an Honorary Ambassador of IITA, delivered a keynote address affirming the critical importance of agribusiness for Nigeria’s future. He advocated for decentralized strategies for food security, emphasizing the role of states in driving holistic agricultural development.
Dr. Simeon Ehui, Africa Continental Director CGIAR/Director General IITA, stressed the need for collaboration and innovation to ensure food security across the continent. He highlighted the forum’s aim of addressing pressing food security issues and fostering positive change through stakeholder engagement.
Executive Adviser to the Governor on Agribusiness, International Cooperation, and Development, Dr. Debo Akande, emphasized the pivotal role of infrastructure in achieving food security, emphasizing the need for rural infrastructural transformation.
Beneficiaries of the Oyo State Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Project (YEAP) lauded Governor Makinde’s initiatives, expressing gratitude for the empowerment and support extended to youth in the agricultural sector.
Governor Makinde’s commitment to transforming Oyo State into a modern agribusiness hub signals a significant step towards harnessing the state’s agricultural potential and driving economic prosperity for its residents. With a focus on innovation, partnership, and sustainable development, Oyo State aims to emerge as a beacon of agricultural excellence in Sub-Saharan Africa.
