FG Partners with Agbeyewa Farms to Boost Food Security and Job Creation
The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a strategic partnership with Agbeyewa Farms Ltd to bolster agricultural production and enhance food security across the nation. This collaboration aims to address critical challenges in the agriculture sector, including poverty reduction and job creation for the burgeoning youth population.
During a visit to the expansive 10,000-hectare Agbeyewa Farms in Ipao-Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, expressed admiration for the farm’s substantial investments and rapid progress in agricultural development.
He emphasized that such initiatives align seamlessly with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for achieving sustained food security and economic stability in Nigeria.
Minister Kyari highlighted the pressing issue of inadequate transportation infrastructure, which hampers farmers’ ability to efficiently move produce from farms to markets, leading to significant post-harvest losses.
He assured stakeholders that the government is committed to addressing these infrastructural deficits to enhance productivity and reduce wastage in the agricultural value chain.
Seyi Aiyeleso, the Managing Director of Agbeyewa Farms Ltd, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to becoming a leading agro-allied enterprise in Africa. He outlined the farm’s ambitious plans to cultivate over 10,000 hectares across nine communities by 2026, expanding from the current 1,500 hectares of cassava cultivation in areas such as Ipao, Itapaji, Igede, Iyemero, and Ikosu.
Aiyeleso also announced the imminent commencement of operations at a 26-hectare agro-processing plant, which will produce high-quality cassava derivatives, including flour, starch, sorghum, ethanol, and electricity.
The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ebenezer Boluwade, revealed the state’s objective to double cassava production from the current 2,000,000 metric tons to 4,000,000 metric tons by 2026. He called for federal support to elevate Ekiti State’s profile in agricultural excellence both nationally and internationally.
This partnership is part of a broader strategy by the Nigerian government to collaborate with private agricultural enterprises to achieve food security. In a related development, Nigeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Cuba on September 17, 2023, focusing on bio-fortification of agricultural produce, seed improvement, mechanization, and technology transfer.
This agreement aims to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to international cooperation in the agricultural sector.
Furthermore, Nigeria and France have entered into agreements to boost infrastructure development and food security. These deals, signed during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Paris, involve a €300 million investment plan supporting sectors such as healthcare, transportation, agriculture, renewable energy, and human capital development.
The collaboration seeks to strengthen mutual trade and remove fiscal barriers, thereby fostering economic growth and stability.
The Federal Government’s proactive approach in partnering with both local and international agricultural firms underscores its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. These collaborations are poised to enhance food security, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.