Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to propelling agribusiness throughout the state, vowing ongoing support for investors in this vital sector.
On Thursday, the governor embarked on a visit to JB Farms Limited in Ore, renowned as the largest agricultural plantation in the state, where he praised the company’s substantial investments in agriculture. He also toured SAO Agro Farms in Ajue, another significant contributor to oil palm cultivation.
During his visit to JB Farms, Aiyedatiwa expressed his admiration for the remarkable transformation of the once-dense forest into a flourishing agricultural enterprise. He highlighted the farm’s extensive infrastructure and its economic ramifications, praising the company’s endeavors particularly in light of the ongoing development of a modern palm oil processing mill set to commence operations next year.
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“This is the most extensive plantation I have ever encountered. It used to be a thick forest, but it has now been converted into a productive venture,” the governor exclaimed. “Beyond the palm plantation, the expansive infrastructure development here is praiseworthy. This is a significant investment deserving all the backing it can receive.”
He further emphasized that JB Farms employs approximately 5,000 individuals across various local government areas in the state, underscoring the company’s vital role in job creation and economic progress.
Chief Executive Officer of JB Farms, Ajibola Adebutu, revealed that the company has cleared 7,500 hectares of land since its establishment in 2021, with 5,000 hectares already under cultivation. He also stressed the importance of the processing mill, which, at full capacity, will be able to process 800 tonnes of palm fruits daily, yielding about 160 tonnes of palm oil.
“This area was once notorious for kidnappers and armed robbers five to six years ago,” Adebutu disclosed. “However, today, crime rates have significantly diminished, as many who previously engaged in illegal activities now have legitimate employment here.”
At SAO Agro Farms in Ajue, Governor Aiyedatiwa reassured local farmers of the state government’s unwavering commitment to achieving balance between large-scale and smallholder farming practices. He hinted at plans to transform portions of the state’s forests into productive farmlands to further enhance agricultural endeavors.
As a symbolic gesture reflecting his support, the governor planted a palm tree at SAO Agro Farms, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to the expansion of agribusiness in Ondo State.
