Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has highlighted how his administration’s emphasis on agriculture is driving economic expansion in the state.
Speaking at the Africa Business Forum 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Governor Makinde advocated for greater involvement of subnational governments in Africa’s trade and investment agenda. He stressed that while discussions on trade, investment, and economic integration often take place at the national level, effective implementation must be decentralised to subnational entities.
During a ‘Show and Tell Session’ at the forum, the governor showcased Oyo State’s efforts to create a conducive environment for trade and investment, particularly through agribusiness. He noted that the state has successfully leveraged agribusiness to drive economic growth, create import substitution, and generate foreign exchange.
Addressing journalists after the session, Makinde said, “When discussions on trade, investment, and economic integration take place at the national level, implementation still has to devolve to the subnational governments.”
“Essentially, my message here is that subnationals should be seen as enablers of the African Continental Free Trade Area. I am also here to share some of the success stories from Oyo State.”
He emphasised the state’s competitive advantage in agriculture and agribusiness, stating, “We are not just focusing on import substitution in Nigeria; we are also working towards exporting and generating foreign exchange, and we are making great progress in that direction.”
Makinde highlighted the Fashola Agribusiness Industrial Hub as a transformative initiative that has garnered interest from other subnational governments in Nigeria and across Africa.
“The Fasola farm estate has attracted visitors, including presidents from other countries. In two weeks, I will be hosting the President of Sierra Leone there,” he said.
He also noted ongoing collaborations with the Republic of Benin, particularly in border regions such as Saki and Iwajowa Local Government Areas, where farm estates with shared ownership models are being established.
“Our focus is on building strong trade links and creating an enabling environment for collaboration. That, I believe, is the future of Africa’s economic growth,” Makinde added.
