Kwara government partners with Olam to boost soybean, maize production

NIGERIA –  The Kwara State Government has forged a strategic partnership with Olam International to boost soybean and maize production in the state.

This collaboration, aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security, was announced during a visit by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, to Okuta and surrounding areas.

The government’s partnership with Olam includes the allocation of 100 hectares of land, provision of quality seedlings, and training of extension workers to support local farmers.

The initiative focuses on increasing both the quality and quantity of soybean production, which is seen as a key driver of the state’s agricultural value chain.

Speaking at the Palace of the Emir of Okuta, Abubakar Sero, Commissioner Thomas highlighted the significant impact the partnership will have on the local farming community.

“Our collaboration with Olam aims to improve productivity in the soybean value chain. The company will also soon open a soybean oil processing plant in Asa Local Government Area, creating a valuable processing hub within the state,” Thomas explained.

Thomas also emphasized that over 150,000 hectares of land are currently being cultivated with soybeans across Kwara, making it an ideal location for such agricultural ventures.

The state government has facilitated the project by fast-tracking land documentation and other necessary processes to ensure smooth operations for Olam’s soybean oil processing plant.

“Olam’s involvement will not only provide farmers with access to high-quality seedlings and technology but also create a stable market for their produce. The company will directly purchase soybeans from farmers for oil processing, which will further support the local economy,” Thomas added.

The Emir of Okuta, Alhaji Idris Sero, expressed his gratitude for the state government’s agricultural initiatives, acknowledging the importance of farming to the people of Baruten.

“We thank the Governor for prioritizing the needs of farmers in our local communities. This partnership will help us maintain the fertility of our land and ensure that our farmers receive the support they need to increase yields,” he said.

Olam’s Manager, Amit Mathur, echoed these sentiments, outlining the company’s role in providing processing machines, technical know-how, and seedlings to empower farmers. Mathur further explained that the partnership aims to streamline the production process and improve the overall efficiency of soybean farming in the region.

The General Secretary of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Baruten, Madubu Muhammad, praised the initiative, stating that it would significantly boost soybean production and position Baruten as a leading soybean-producing area in Kwara State.

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