Ugandan delegation studies Nigeria’s oil palm model in Ondo
Visit focuses on farm practices, extension support, and possible joint work to raise output.
UGANDA – Uganda has taken steps to grow its oil palm sector after a high level team visited Ondo State in Nigeria to learn from its production system.
Ugandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Philip Odida, led a group of parliamentarians on the visit. They met state officials, farmer groups, and extension teams to review how Ondo runs its oil palm value chain.
Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, said the state backs the sector through clear policies, strong extension support, and investor friendly measures. He said Ondo ranks among Nigeria’s top producers and welcomes partners who can help raise output and improve processing.
Akinola said the state aims to grow capacity and push the use of modern methods across planting and processing. He added that partnerships can help farmers earn more and support wider economic growth.
The chairman of the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria in Ondo State, Adetula Bolarinwa, said oil palm once drove Nigeria’s export earnings before crude oil took focus away from farming. He said recent efforts now seek to restore the crop’s role in the economy.
He pointed to better seedlings, improved farm practices, and rising private sector interest as key changes that have lifted output and renewed farmer interest.
The Programme Manager of the Ondo State Agricultural Development Programme said extension services play a central role in farmer uptake of new methods. She said the programme runs regular training, links farmers to quality planting materials, and connects them to markets so they can secure better prices. She added that these steps raise yields and farm income while keeping production on a stable path.
During the tour, the Ugandan team visited nurseries and plantations. They reviewed field planting, spacing, and crop care for high yielding varieties. Extension officers also shared guidance on pest and disease control and on farm practices that protect soil and long term yields.
Members of the Ugandan Parliament held talks with local stakeholders on yield per hectare, crop maturity periods, access to seedlings, and farmer support systems.
They showed strong interest in Nigeria’s smallholder led model, which relies on many farmers supported by extension services and market links.
Nigeria currently produces about 1.06 million metric tonnes of palm oil each year, while demand stands at about 1.44 million tonnes. The shortfall of about 0.38 million tonnes is met through imports. Production grows at about 0.3 percent each year, while demand rises faster at about 0.7 percent.
Projections suggest output could reach close to 12 million tonnes by 2033 if policy changes and technology improve results. Nigeria’s draft Oil Palm Development Policy also sets out plans to expand growing areas, support smallholder farmers and attract more private investment in processing and value addition.
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