The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin Ige Olakulehin I, has emphasized that Ibadan is well-endowed with arable land suitable for agriculture.
He made this statement during a courtesy visit from the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, at the new Olubadan Palace on Monday.
Represented by the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Olakulehin highlighted the extensive arable land available in Ibadan, which spans several local government areas including Egbeda, Ona Ara, Oluyole, Ido, Lagelu, and Akinyele.
He stressed the need for international collaboration, funding, and support to enhance food production in the country.
“Kabiesi is pleased to welcome you and your team this morning. Ibadan, being one of Africa’s largest cities, possesses significant resources, including vast arable land ideal for large-scale agricultural production. We invite you to explore these opportunities to boost food production, particularly in light of the current national needs,” said Olakulehin.
Ambassador Leenknegt, who was accompanied by Genco Sanli, Advisor in Economic Diplomacy for Nigeria, and Florence Oluwatoyin Oke, Manager of Resource Mobilisation at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), expressed his intent to leverage the Olubadan’s expertise and insights.
He outlined Belgium’s interest in enhancing agricultural production, trade, and finance between Nigeria and Belgium, particularly focusing on cocoa production.
Leenknegt emphasized Belgium’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector, aligning with the current administration’s goals.
“We have engaged with IITA and are keen on boosting cocoa production in Nigeria. This visit to Oyo State aims to strengthen trade and finance partnerships and gain valuable guidance for a successful tenure,” Leenknegt noted.
