The Ogun State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lee Group Subsidiaries, Sun Crop Agriculture Limited and Sun Giant Limited, to establish a public-private partnership in agriculture and agribusiness.

This agreement, according to an official statement obtained by BusinessDay, aims to promote rice and cotton cultivation and processing in Eggua, Yewa North Local Government Area, and Iwoye, Imeko Afon Local Government Area. The project is expected to serve domestic consumption, industrial use, and exports.

Bolu Owotomo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, explained that the partnership includes the allocation of 50 hectares of land to Sun Giant Limited for rice cultivation and another 50 hectares to Sun Crop Agriculture Limited for cotton cultivation. These allocations are part of a pilot scheme to test the land’s suitability and the project’s sustainability.

“This MOU aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s objectives to make Ogun State a hub for agro-based industrialists, enhancing the State’s food system and ensuring food security,” Owotomo stated.

He added that the companies will invest N1 billion in infrastructure, including access roads and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to benefit host communities.

Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, member representing Yewa North and Imeko Afon Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives and facilitator of the MoU, praised the initiative. “This project signifies the State’s commitment to industrial development,” he said, adding that the pilot scheme will commence in February 2025, with plans for expansion as the investment progresses.

Liu Fei, Deputy General Manager of Lee Group, and Umar Mohammed Maja, Director of Agriculture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, lauded the Ogun State Government for encouraging investments, assuring that the project will drive economic growth and positively impact the State.

The partnership reinforces Ogun State’s dedication to agricultural development and industrial progress.