The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, on Thursday commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for the launch of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) in Atan, Ijaiye.
Hon. Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West and South-West Federal Constituency, fondly known as OdidiOmo, described the initiative as visionary and transformative.
Speaking after attending the groundbreaking ceremony, which was graced by dignitaries including Governor Makinde, Vice President Kashim Shettima (represented by Hon. Minister Abubakar Kyari), and the President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, Olajide praised the governor’s foresight in prioritising agriculture as a driver of development.
“The SAPZ represents a bold shift towards value-added agriculture, job creation, and inclusive economic growth, positioning Oyo State as a key player in Nigeria’s food economy,” Olajide said.
He particularly lauded the allocation of 3,000 hectares within the Ijaiye Farm Settlement for the development of the agro-industrial zone and a Rungis-style food wholesale market.
“In today’s world, led by innovation in technology and agriculture, this initiative is both timely and highly inventive. It sets a standard worthy of emulation and promises not just to revolutionise agriculture in Ijaiye, but across the entire state,” he added.
Olajide further praised Governor Makinde’s holistic approach to governance, noting that his administration’s commitment to developing all sectors was paving the way for a progressive and prosperous Oyo.
“Thank you, Your Excellency, for your visionary leadership in shaping a new Oyo State for future generations. Your unwavering dedication to the development of the state and the well-being of its people serves as a model worthy of national adoption,” he said.
According to a statement by Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, 3,000 hectares of the 7,581-hectare Ijaiye Farm Settlement have been allocated for the SAPZ and wholesale food market.
The twin initiative is expected to catalyse agricultural and commercial transformation in Ijaiye and beyond.
