Ogun Govt Proposes Establishment Of Rice Enclave In Eggua To Reduce Importation

Ogun State government has revealed plans to establish a rice enclave in Eggua, Yewa North Local Government Area of the state, as a way of conserving foreign exchange, reducing Importation of food and boosting its revenue base.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, revealed this during a visit to Okun Rice Mills, being operated by the Chief Executive Officer of HYST Global Business Limited, Dr. Abiodun Onalaja, under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, assuring that government would ensure revitalisation of all abandoned agriculture assets in the state, to boost food production and drive industrialisation, in tandem with the vision of the present government 

Hon. Owotomo restated the commitment of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration to provide a conducive environment for rice production business to thrive, advising that the paddy used in production should be sourced from available places within the state such as Eggua, Ijebu Waterside and Ijebu North East,

Speaking, Dr. Onalaja appreciated government for the collaboration, saying the company was determined to enhance rice production, when it commences full operation, seeking continuous support and intervention.

In the same vein, Hon. Owotomo said the state Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security intends to formulate new agricultural policies to increase efficiency and drive the sector to a greater height.

The Commissioner made this known at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, during a two-day workshop on Diversity and Gender Inclusion in the Agriculture sector policy, powered by USAID/PALLADIUM, in conjunction with Life And Peace Development Organisation (LAPDO).

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Samuel Adeogun, the Commissioner pointed out that efforts would be intensified on policies and programmes that would prevent the sector from becoming stagnant.

On his part, the Lead Consultant for LAPDO, Prof. James Okunlola, commended the state government for its commitment to agricultural development, emphasising the need to formulate documents, articulate strategies and institute sustainable agricultural development that would strengthen food security and increase productivity.