Aiyedatiwa commends private investment in agriculture, pledges support for expansion

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to agribusiness expansion and investment in agriculture across the state.

The governor made this declaration during his visit to JB Farms Limited in Ore and SAO Agro Farms in Ajue on Thursday.

At JB Farms, the largest agricultural plantation in the state, Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the company’s significant investment in palm cultivation and processing. He noted the transformation of the once-dense forest into a thriving agricultural enterprise, describing it as a model for economic growth and employment generation.

“This is a very large plantation, the biggest I have ever seen. What used to be a thick forest has now been turned into a productive venture. Beyond the plantation, the company has developed infrastructure, including roads and a modern processing mill set for commissioning next year. This is a huge investment that deserves commendation,” the governor stated.

He also highlighted JB Farms’ role in employment creation, with over 5,000 workers drawn from various local government areas of the state. He assured the company and other investors of his administration’s continued support through security, infrastructure, and a conducive business environment.

The Chief Executive Officer of JB Farms, Mr. Ajibola Adebutu, provided an update on the farm’s progress, revealing that it commenced operations in August 2021 and has cleared 7,500 hectares of land, with 5,000 hectares already planted. He emphasized the importance of the company’s upcoming oil palm processing mill, which will process 800 tonnes of palm fruits daily, yielding approximately 160 tonnes of palm oil.

“This area was once a hideout for criminals, but today, it is an economic hub providing employment and opportunities for many. Thanks to the government’s support, we have been able to turn the situation around,” Adebutu said.

The governor’s tour also included a visit to SAO Agro Farms in Ajue, another key player in oil palm cultivation. Addressing concerns from local farmers, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured them that the state government would provide sufficient land to accommodate both smallholder and large-scale farming operations.

He further disclosed plans to convert parts of the state’s forests into productive farmlands to enhance food production and economic growth. In a symbolic gesture of support, the governor personally planted a palm tree at SAO Agro Farms.

Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering agricultural development, urging investors to take advantage of the vast opportunities available in Ondo State.