EDO STATE: Toba Owojaiye reporting
In a significant stride towards transforming Edo State’s agricultural landscape, Governor Godwin Obaseki on Friday, officially kicked off the second phase of the Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP) at Okogbo Community, Orhionmwon Local Government Area.
The initiative, starting with a massive 50,000 hectares, brings together over 20 new investors eager to be part of the state’s ambitious push to redefine oil palm production.
Truth Live News gathered that the Governor, while leading the ceremonial planting, emphasized that the success of Phase 1, which covered 70,000 hectares, has solidified Edo State’s position as the leading sub-national entity with the most extensive oil palm development programme in Africa.
Speaking at the event, Obaseki said, “Today marks a new chapter in our quest to elevate Edo State as the hub of sustainable oil palm production. We are launching ESOPP Phase 2, which will see another 50,000 hectares dedicated to this vital crop. Our first phase was a resounding success, paving the way for this new set of investors.
“We’re not just allocating land; we’re laying the groundwork for an agricultural revolution that will benefit generations to come.”
Reflecting on the journey so far, Obaseki noted, “When we took office in 2016, we conducted a thorough forest audit, uncovering the extent of deforestation and degradation across our reserves.
“Rather than letting this land go to waste, we saw an opportunity—an opportunity to create sustainable value through oil palm cultivation while protecting our environment.
“This programme is about more than just agriculture; it’s about restoring our forests, boosting food security, and driving economic prosperity.”
The Governor highlighted that the state government’s role is to minimize risks for investors by addressing challenges like land allocation, community engagement, infrastructure, and the provision of high-quality planting materials.
“Our vision is clear—Edo State will be the epicenter of sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.
“We’ve taken on every challenge head-on so our investors can focus on what they do best: growing crops and creating value.
“This programme is a win-win for all—our communities, our economy, and our environment,” Obaseki added.
Echoing the Governor’s optimism, Dr. Tunde Faturoti, Project Director at Saro Oil Palm, expressed gratitude for the favorable investment climate created under the ESOPP framework.
He noted, “What we’re witnessing here is a classic example of turning waste into wealth.
This initiative not only drives economic growth but also plays a vital role in restoring our ecosystem. We’re committed to planting high-yielding oil palms that will power our economy while preserving our environment.”
The commencement of Phase 2 signals a bold leap in Edo’s mission to lead the continent in sustainable oil palm production, attracting global investors and setting new standards for agricultural excellence.
The future of Edo’s economy is firmly rooted in the fertile soils of innovation and sustainability.