Ekiti State Celebrates Agbeyewa Farm's Global Cassava Production Achievement
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed immense delight over the emergence of Agbeyewa Farm, based in the state, as the number one cassava producer globally. This recognition highlights a significant milestone in Nigeria's agricultural sector, showcasing Ekiti's commitment to fostering agribusiness and economic development.
Governor Oyebanji Highlights Agricultural Growth and Economic Expansion
Governor Oyebanji, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, spoke at the 3rd Annual Agbeyewa Traditional Rulers Retreat held at Ikogosi Warm Spring in Ekiti West Local Government Area. He emphasized that over the past three years, Ekiti State has experienced substantial agricultural growth through strategic investments, with Agbeyewa Farm standing out as the largest investor in this sector.
Oyebanji noted that the development of infrastructure across the state has led to rapid economic expansion, contributing to a remarkable increase in the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Specifically, Ekiti's GDP grew to 4.6 trillion naira from 2.6 trillion naira in 2023, reflecting a robust economic trajectory driven by agricultural and infrastructural advancements.
Ooni of Ife Calls for Traditional Ruler Support and National Replication
In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, urged traditional rulers in Ekiti State to actively support investors willing to invest in their domains, rather than discouraging them by refusing to release lands. He stressed that monarchs must take it as their responsibility to partner with investors to drive local and national development.
The Ooni further called on the Federal Government to study and replicate the successful agricultural and industrial models of Agbeyewa Farm across other parts of Nigeria. This initiative is particularly crucial for regions currently grappling with heightened insecurity, as it could foster economic stability and job creation through similar agribusiness ventures.
Agbeyewa Farm's Call to Cassava Farmers
Mr Niyi Olajide, Chairman of Cavista Holdings and owner of Agbeyewa Farm, made an appeal during the event. He called on cassava farmers, including smallholders, to sell their cassava to Agbeyewa Farm instead of allowing it to go to waste. This move aims to strengthen the supply chain, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance profitability for local farmers, thereby supporting the broader agricultural ecosystem in Ekiti and beyond.
Ondo State Governor Discusses Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
In a related development, the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, delivered a lecture at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), focusing on leadership and organizational performance in the context of technological disruption. He emphasized that future leaders must possess not only traditional leadership competencies but also the ability to navigate challenges posed by artificial intelligence and other technological advancements.
Aiyedatiwa asserted that Nigeria's future economic and technological advancement will depend largely on the quality of leadership and the strength of its educational institutions. While technology may change the tools societies use, he stressed that leadership will always determine the direction in which societies move, underscoring the enduring importance of visionary governance.
Prof. Adenike Oladiji, Vice Chancellor of FUTA, echoed these sentiments, describing the institution as a dynamic academic environment that integrates technology with humanities to meet societal needs. She noted that technology has become central in the digital age, serving as a vital tool for leaders to drive innovation and progress in various sectors.
