Agriculture holds the key to unlocking economic prosperity in Nigeria, and partnerships that drive innovation are essential for this transformation. This was the position of the Director General of International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, Dr Simeon Ehui, stated this while on a strategic visit to some agribusiness sites in Oyo State, to strengthen collaboration and expand technology-scaling efforts.

His visit, which included a meeting with Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, and tours of key agribusiness sites, provided a firsthand look at how agricultural investments shape the state’s future. From the Fasola Agribusiness Hub to the Oyo Sugarcane Processors factory, Obasanjo Farms, and the Psaltry International cassava processing factory in Iseyin, Dr Ehui witnessed the impact of innovation, partnerships, and youth engagement in agribusiness.

These sites represent major agricultural public-private partnership initiatives contributing to the state’s agribusiness development. At the Fasola Agribusiness Hub, a flagship project under the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr Ehui in the company of IITA DDG Partnerships for Delivery, Dr Kenton Dashiell; OYSADA Director General, who also doubles as the CEO, IITA Business Incubation Platform Ltd, Dr Debo Akande; and IITA Director of Strategy, Dr Ibnou Dieng witnessed innovative farming models integrating technology and youth engagement in agribusiness.

Impressed by the progress, Dr Ehui emphasised IITA’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that enhance technology adoption and boost regional productivity.

“IITA is committed to scaling agricultural innovations that drive food security and economic growth. Seeing firsthand the progress at Fasola Agribusiness Hub, the Oyo State Sugar Factory, and other key agribusiness sites reaffirms the potential of strong partnerships in transforming the agricultural landscape. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with Oyo State to expand technology adoption and empower more farmers,” he stated.

Governor Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to agricultural transformation, highlighting the role of research and innovation in improving food production and rural livelihoods. He welcomed IITA’s continued support in advancing agribusiness initiatives in the state.

The visit underscored the importance of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable agricultural development. By working closely with Oyo State, IITA aims to accelerate the adoption of climate-smart technologies, improve value chains, and create more economic opportunities for farmers and agripreneurs in the region.