Governor Abiodun Positions Agriculture as Core of Ogun State's Economic Development Strategy
Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed agriculture as the fundamental pillar of Ogun State's economic transformation, describing the sector as a powerful engine for sustainable growth, job creation, food security, and industrial advancement. During the midterm review of his second tenure, the governor emphasized that his administration has deliberately placed agriculture at the center of its development strategy, asserting that a robust agricultural base is essential for economic diversification and long-term prosperity.
Strategic Shift from Subsistence to Business Sector
According to Abiodun, agriculture in Ogun State is no longer viewed as a mere subsistence activity but as a strategic business sector capable of attracting significant investment and driving exports. This paradigm shift aims to elevate the state's economic profile and ensure resilience against market fluctuations.
OGSTEP and OGFIMS as Key Catalysts for Agricultural Transformation
To translate this vision into tangible action, the Abiodun administration has implemented the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) alongside the Ogun State Farmers Information Management System (OGFIMS). These platforms have enabled the government to provide enhanced support to farmers, track production metrics, and design targeted interventions across various agricultural value chains.
Under OGSTEP, the state has successfully completed 28 agricultural projects over the past two years. These initiatives are complemented by programs such as the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), Ogun CARES, and the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ), all aimed at boosting productivity, improving livelihoods, and reducing post-harvest losses, which are estimated at a staggering ₦3.5 trillion annually across Nigeria.
Prioritizing Aquaculture and Poultry for Economic Growth
Governor Abiodun highlighted aquaculture and poultry as priority areas with substantial economic potential. He disclosed that 5,068 fish farmers have been registered on OGFIMS, while 4,362 have received free capacity-building training covering essential topics such as record-keeping, group dynamics, and the preparation of bankable business proposals.
"These steps are strengthening aquaculture and supporting our fish farmers across Ogun State," the governor stated, emphasizing that access to skills and data is critical for scaling production and enhancing competitiveness.
Regarding poultry, Abiodun noted that Nigeria's per capita chicken consumption remains significantly lower than that of peer countries, standing at between 1.7kg and 2kg compared to 13kg in Ghana, 36kg in South Africa, and 46kg in Brazil. He asserted that sustained investment in this sector would position Ogun as Nigeria's leading poultry hub while ensuring long-term food security for the nation.
Infrastructure Development, Youth Empowerment, and Private Investment
Over the past six years, Ogun State has invested heavily in agro-industrial infrastructure, including rice mills and cassava processing plants, which have helped strengthen local value chains and attract private investors. These investments are part of a broader strategy to modernize the agricultural sector and increase its contribution to the state's economy.
Thousands of young people have been trained in modern farming techniques through various youth empowerment schemes. Beneficiaries report that these programs have transformed perceptions about agriculture, turning it into a viable and profitable business venture rather than a traditional subsistence activity.
Farmers across the state have also benefited from mechanized equipment, improved seedlings, and access to credit facilities, leading to higher productivity and reduced post-harvest losses. These measures are designed to enhance efficiency and profitability within the agricultural sector.
Agriculture as a Driver of Rural Growth and Economic Revitalization
The impact of these interventions is becoming increasingly visible throughout Ogun State. Rural communities are experiencing renewed economic activity, food production is on the rise, and the state's reputation as an industrial hub is being reinforced by a strong agricultural foundation.
"Agriculture is not just about farming. It is about creating wealth, jobs, and ensuring food security," Abiodun summarized, highlighting a strategy that continues to reshape Ogun's economy and position the state as a major agribusiness hub in Nigeria. This comprehensive approach aims to leverage agriculture as a catalyst for broader economic development and social progress.
