The Acting Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, enthusiastically emphasized the wealth of opportunities that lie within agriculture-based enterprises within the state. He stressed that the State Government maintains an unwavering commitment to nurturing sustainable agricultural development, thereby ensuring food security and prosperity for its populace.
Aiyedatiwa’s sentiments were expressed during his reception of the management team from Nigeria’s renowned rubber research institute, The Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria (RRIN), based in Benin City, Edo State.
This meeting occurred during a courtesy visit paid by the RRIN team to his office in Akure.
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The visit’s objective was to acquaint the State Government with the extensive prospects presented by rubber plantation and production. Acknowledging Ondo State’s prominence as a significant rubber-producing region, the Acting Governor expressed gratitude for RRIN’s choice to explore opportunities within the state.
He firmly conveyed the State Government’s dedication to fully harnessing the potential of the rubber industry, aiming to ensure that rubber farmers maximize their gains. Aiyedatiwa asserted that the primary focus of the government is elevating farmers’ income and driving comprehensive development in rural areas.
The Acting Governor invited potential investors to tap into the diverse opportunities available within the state, particularly in the domain of agriculture-based enterprises. He underscored the lucrativeness of rubber production, citing the substantial contribution of Araromi Rubber Plantation to the state’s revenue. The proliferation of such plantations, Aiyedatiwa posited, would significantly curb unemployment and bolster the state’s economy.
He iterated the government’s enthusiasm for innovative concepts in rubber plantation, aiming to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with RRIN for collective growth.
Dr. Lelia Ndogo, the Executive Director/CEO of RRIN, provided an overview of the institute, which boasts a 50-year legacy. She highlighted the value of partnering with the institute to tap into specialized rubber varieties and planting systems, which would generate substantial benefits for both the state and its farmers. Dr. Ndogo described the partnership as a gateway to a realm of insights and innovations in rubber plantations.
Accompanying the Acting Governor in welcoming the RRIN management team were key figures, including the Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry, Hon Olayato Aribo, Senior Special Assistant to Governor on Agric and Agribusiness, Pastor Akin Olotu, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor, Office of Acting Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Press Secretary to Governor, Office of Acting Governor, Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson, Special Assistant to Governor on New Media, Ladi Okunniga and other officials involved in agricultural and agribusiness matters.