As part of efforts to deepen agro-industrial growth and create sustainable livelihoods in rural communities, the Japanese Government, in collaboration with the Lift Above Poverty Organisation, has delivered a pineapple juice processing facility in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The project, located in Ukpenu Emuhi community, was funded through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project, underscoring the growing development partnership between Nigeria and Japan.
It is expected to strengthen local capacity for value addition while tackling the long standing challenge of post harvest losses among pineapple farmers in the area.
Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo, who addressed the commissioning ceremony virtually on Friday, described the initiative as a practical expression of Japan’s commitment to human security and inclusive economic progress.
He noted that shifting from the sale of raw produce to local processing would help retain more value within the community and stimulate economic activity.
According to the envoy, the factory will provide a dependable outlet for no fewer than 500 pineapple farmers, encouraging higher output and improved productivity.
He added that about 2,000 farm workers, alongside more than 2,000 traders across the supply chain, stand to gain from expanded commercial opportunities linked to the facility.
Suzuki also pointed to the strategic location of the plant, noting that Ekpoma’s expanding population and the presence of Ambrose Alli University offer a ready market and academic support base.
Beyond production, he said the centre will double as a training hub, exposing over 1,000 students to practical industrial experience and research opportunities.
The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Commissioner for Transport, Saturday Idehen, said the initiative aligns with the state’s drive for agricultural industrialisation and economic diversification under its SHINE development blueprint.
He expressed optimism that the factory would open up employment opportunities while empowering young people and women in surrounding communities.
Governor Okpebholo encouraged farmers to scale up cultivation and embrace improved techniques to maximise the benefits of the new processing outlet, assuring them of continued government backing.
In her remarks, the President of LAPO, Barrister Faith Negbe Osazuwa Ojo, said the project was conceived to curb the persistent waste of pineapples due to the absence of processing infrastructure.
Represented by Dr Honestus Ayo Obadiora, Executive Vice President for Health and Social Development, she stated that Japan’s intervention has converted a recurring agricultural setback into a viable enterprise designed to enhance food security and community prosperity.
She further explained that the factory will operate as a community owned venture, a structure intended to promote accountability, reinvestment of proceeds, and long term sustainability.
The organisation, she affirmed, remains committed to strengthening local capacity, promoting environmental responsibility, and ensuring that women and youths play active roles in the enterprise.
