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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State Government is set to leverage greenhouse technology to enhance tomato production in the state. This initiative was disclosed by the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser on Agribusiness to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, Dr Debo Akande, during a visit by a Dutch delegation led by the Consul-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Nigeria, Mr Michel Deelen.
Dr Akande revealed that Governor Makinde has given a directive to establish around 50 greenhouses for tomato production to complement smallholder farmers operating in open fields. He emphasised that the Netherlands, known for its advanced agricultural expertise, is keen on collaborating with Oyo State in this sector.
Highlighting Oyo State’s agricultural successes, particularly in cassava production, Akande noted that the state is also exploring opportunities in soybean production following Governor Makinde’s recent engagement at the African Business Forum in Ethiopia. He stated that the Dutch delegation’s visit provides an avenue to expand large-scale tomato production in the state.
“This is a significant development in our agribusiness sector,” Akande remarked. “Oyo State is already excelling in cassava production, and we have plans to intensify our efforts in soybean farming. Now, with this partnership, we aim to enhance our tomato production. While some progress has been made, there is still much to be done. This collaboration with the Dutch government will help accelerate and expand our tomato farming efforts.”
He further pointed out the challenges faced in tomato supply chains, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when disruptions affected the supply from the North to the South. He also addressed seasonal price fluctuations, emphasising the need for year-round tomato availability at stable prices.
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“The Dutch and Israelis are global leaders in tomato production, largely due to their investment in greenhouse technology,” Akande explained. “In Oyo State, we have already demonstrated the viability of greenhouses through a private sector initiative at the Oyo State Transformation Centre in Fasola. However, to meet local consumption demands, we need to scale up significantly.”
Akande affirmed that the Dutch government would provide support, while the Oyo State Government would ensure a conducive environment and necessary infrastructure to facilitate the project.
In his remarks, Consul-General Deelen stated that the Dutch delegation, comprising about 15 companies specialising in seeds, horticulture, and greenhouse technology, was on a trade mission to explore collaboration with Oyo State.
“We brought experts from Westland and other horticulture hubs to exchange knowledge and explore ways to boost horticulture production in Oyo State,” Deelen said. “There is a significant demand for horticultural products in the South-West, and Oyo State has the landmass to support large-scale production, unlike Lagos. This partnership will also create job opportunities in the sector and improve the quality of farm produce for consumers.”
Agricultural Counsellor at the Consulate-General Office, Inge Tenniglo, reaffirmed the Dutch government’s commitment to enhancing tomato production in Nigeria. Additionally, Senior Manager for International and Economic Affairs, Ima Meijer, underscored the Netherlands’ focus on sustainable food production, highlighting greenhouse technology as a crucial tool for achieving this goal.
