Makinde vows to make state a modern agribusiness powerhouse

In a determined effort to bolster the agricultural sector and revitalize the economy, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has pledged robust support for farmers while prioritizing infrastructure and security enhancements.

Speaking at the “Agribusiness for Food Security Initiative” event hosted at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, Makinde outlined his vision to position the state as a modern agribusiness hub within sub-Saharan Africa.

Emphasizing the imperative of prosperity for the state, Makinde reiterated his commitment to empowering youths and outlined his “Roadmap for Accelerated Development,” aimed at lifting the populace from poverty to prosperity. Recognizing the vast arable land as a comparative advantage, he underscored the need for a paradigm shift towards modern agricultural practices.

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Makinde underscored the inadequacy of traditional farming methods, emphasizing the necessity for innovation and efficiency. He highlighted the state’s economic challenges, citing the disparity in internally-generated revenue compared to neighboring Lagos State. Despite significant progress in revenue generation, he acknowledged that there is still much ground to cover to achieve desired economic milestones.

Former Nigerian President and honorary ambassador of IITA, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, echoed Makinde’s sentiments on the pivotal role of agribusiness in national development. He advocated for decentralized approaches, urging state governments to spearhead comprehensive strategies for food security, leveraging their abundant resources, manpower, and infrastructure.

In conclusion, the governor’s proactive stance and collaborative efforts underscore a transformative agenda aimed at positioning Oyo State as a beacon of agricultural innovation and economic resurgence.