From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to agricultural transformation, highlighting the significant strides made in the state’s agribusiness sector.
Speaking at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Headquarters in Ibadan during the Presidential Visit Programme for Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Governor Makinde announced that Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub has been designated as Nigeria’s first Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The governor emphasized that his administration’s vision for agriculture led to the establishment of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and the revitalization of Fasola Farms into a thriving industrial hub. He encouraged President Bio to adopt Oyo State’s agribusiness model for Sierra Leone’s agricultural development.
“When we assumed office in 2019, we identified agriculture as a crucial pillar for Oyo State’s economic transformation. We initiated the ‘Roadmap for Accelerated Development of Oyo State (2019-2023),’ which we have now followed with the ‘Roadmap for Sustainable Development of Oyo State (2023-2027).’ Before my tenure ends, I will present the ‘Roadmap for Continuous Development of Oyo State (2027 and beyond),’ ensuring a lasting impact,” Makinde stated.
He highlighted the establishment of OYSADA as a key step in fostering partnerships between the state, private sector, and development organizations. The governor further revealed that work has commenced on additional agribusiness industrial hubs in Eruwa and Ijaye, with the latter being developed in collaboration with the French Government.
Governor Makinde also pointed to Oyo State’s strategic positioning for agribusiness, citing its advantageous climatic conditions, rich academic and research heritage, and improved infrastructure. He underscored the importance of leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to expand agricultural exports while investing in skills development through programs such as the Start Them Early Programme (STEP) in partnership with IITA.
He assured that his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for agribusiness growth, enhancing food security, and driving economic progress.
During the event, IITA Director General and CGIAR Regional Director for Africa emphasized the role of partnerships in agricultural transformation. Similarly, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, represented by Permanent Secretary Marcus Ogunbiyi, reaffirmed the country’s dedication to advancing the agriculture sector.
In his keynote address, President Maada Bio acknowledged the role of research, innovation, and technology in Africa’s agricultural development. He expressed willingness to collaborate with Nigeria to address food security challenges and boost agribusiness.
Dignitaries present included members of the Sierra Leonean delegation, Oyo State government officials, and representatives from international organizations, all reinforcing the shared commitment to sustainable agribusiness growth in Africa.