Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced that the state generated an impressive 1 billion naira from the sale of locally produced rice in just three months.
The State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, disclosed this on Monday, 19 August, when he flagged off the harvesting of the 200-hectare Magboro rice farm in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of the state.
According to Governor Abiodun, the revenue was generated from the sales of Ofada rice, a popular variety known for its unique flavor and quality. The governor highlighted the state’s investment in modern farming techniques, irrigation systems, and processing facilities as key factors contributing to the success of the rice production program.
“This milestone is a testament to the effectiveness of our agricultural policies and the dedication of our farmers. We are not only meeting the local demand for rice but also creating jobs and generating revenue for the state,” Governor Abiodun stated.
Following the success of the initial harvest, the state governor announced plans to expand the project to 2,000 hectares, with further expansion to 5,000 hectares in the pipeline.
This expansion is expected to generate between N10 billion to N25 billion in revenue per quarter.
The farm, a key initiative of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, is supported by the World Bank.
He further noted that the state’s rice production has significantly reduced its reliance on imported rice, thereby contributing to the country’s efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in food production. Governor Abiodun assured stakeholders that his administration would continue to support the agricultural sector with more investments in infrastructure, training, and access to credit for farmers.
The governor also reiterated his administration’s goal of making Ogun State a leading hub for rice production in Nigeria, with plans to expand cultivation areas and increase processing capacity. He encouraged local farmers to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the government to scale up their production and improve their livelihoods.
Governor Abiodun’s announcement has been met with praise from industry experts, who see it as a significant achievement in the state’s agricultural sector. They believe that sustained efforts in rice production could position Ogun State as a major contributor to Nigeria’s food security and economic growth.
