Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to utilizing modern technology to drive agricultural transformation throughout the state.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Chief Bayo Lawal delivered this message during a courtesy visit by a delegation from China Overseas Engineering Group Co. Limited to the Governor’s Office at the Secretariat in Ibadan.
Governor Makinde stressed that advancing agriculture and expanding its value chain are key priorities in the state’s economic development agenda and strategy to attract investors.
He highlighted Oyo State’s natural advantages in the agricultural sector and pointed to the government’s substantial investments in critical infrastructure and security to support the sector’s growth.
The governor encouraged the Chinese investors to partner with the state in boosting food production, enhancing agricultural output, and positioning Oyo as a leading center for agro-industrial activities.
He also assured the visiting team of the state’s commitment to creating a favorable environment for their investments.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Dr. Debo Akande, commended the Chinese delegation’s goals, stating they are in strong alignment with the state’s existing agricultural development plans.
Dr. Debo Akande highlighted that the state’s ongoing programs, such as rural development, establishment of industrial hubs, and creation of agro-processing zones,are strategically aimed at unlocking Oyo State’s full agribusiness potential to drive economic growth.
Earlier in the event, the Team Lead and Director of Strategic Services at the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Alhaji Abubakar Yerima, applauded Governor Seyi Makinde for his remarkable efforts in reshaping the state through key infrastructure projects and targeted investments in the agricultural sector.
In her remarks, the head of the Chinese delegation, Ms. Dong Gwping, expressed that their mission is to transform the agricultural sector by driving socio-economic development through comprehensive value chain enhancement.
She further revealed plans to deploy Chinese technological innovations and professional expertise in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.
