The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has called on the Belgian government to capitalize on Ibadan’s fertile land for agricultural investment.
This appeal was made during the visit of the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, at the new Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, on Monday.
Speaking through the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, Oba Olakulehin highlighted the vast arable land in Ibadan that is ideal for large-scale agricultural production.
He pointed out that international partnerships could significantly boost food production in Nigeria and urged the Belgian government to explore this opportunity.
The monarch mentioned specific areas in Ibadan, such as Egbeda, Ona Ara, Oluyole, Ido, Lagelu, and Akinyele Local Government Areas, which are suitable for agriculture.
“Kabiesi is pleased to welcome you. Ibadan is one of the largest cities in Africa, and we have abundant arable land for large-scale agricultural production. We hope you will seize this opportunity to help boost food production, especially at a time when our nation needs it most,” Ajibola conveyed on behalf of the Olubadan.
In response, Ambassador Leenknegt, accompanied by Genco Sanli, Advisor in Economic Diplomacy for Nigeria, and Florence Oke, Manager of Resource Mobilisation at IITA, discussed Belgium’s ongoing involvement in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He expressed interest in strengthening ties, particularly in cocoa production, and emphasized Oyo State’s significance as a major cocoa producer.
“We have spent some days at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and agriculture is a focus area for us, aligning with Nigeria’s current administration. I am eager to hear your wisdom and guidance as I embark on my mission in Nigeria,” Leenknegt stated.
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