NALDA, Agbeyewa Farms Sign Historic MoU to Drive Cassava Revolution in Nigeria.

NALDA, Agbeyewa Farms Sign Historic MoU to Drive Cassava Revolution in Nigeria.

In a major stride toward transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Agbeyewa Farms, a partnership set to redefine the nation’s cassava value chain and accelerate industrial-scale production.

The MoU signing ceremony held at the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, National Assembly Complex, Abuja, brought together key government officials, industry stakeholders, development partners, and private sector leaders in a strong show of commitment to agricultural transformation.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Cornelius Olusegun Adebayo, Executive Secretary of NALDA, reaffirmed the agency’s strategic drive to support private sector-led agricultural expansion under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He recalled that his initial visit to Agbeyewa Farms in Ekiti State in 2024 was a defining moment that influenced NALDA’s decision to prioritize cassava as a critical focus crop and partnership with Agbeyewa Farms. 

“Our conviction to partner with Agbeyewa Farms is anchored on the clear capacity of their investment, the scale of their operations, and the size of the farms. These factors validate our belief that Agbeyewa Farms is not just the largest cassava farm in Nigeria, but indeed the largest in Africa.”

“We have moved beyond producing raw cassava quantities. The next phase for Nigeria is capturing the global market — and this partnership is a key direction towards achieving that mark."

"While Nigeria currently leads global cassava production with over 65 million metric tons annually, the country earns less than $1 million from a global market valued at $3.65 billion. This partnership is a vehicle that seeks to close that gaps," Adebayo emphasized.

He further announced that, under the MoU, NALDA will clear an additional 5,000 hectares of land to support Agbeyewa’s large-scale cultivation drive, secure raw material availability for processing, and deepen industrial sector participation.

“Government has no business in running businesses — government should enable businesses to thrive. With Agbeyewa, we are building a model that proves that the private sector, supported with the right policiesand legislations, can scale faster, bigger, and more sustainably,” he added.

In his remarks, Mr. OSKA Seyi Aiyeleso, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Agbeyewa Farms, expressed deep appreciation to NALDA on behalf of the Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide for translating months of strategic engagement into a formal alliance that will reshape Nigeria’s agricultural future.

He reflected on Agbeyewa’s bold growth trajectory, disclosing that the company has already cultivated over 3,000 hectares of cassava, with expansion plans to reach 5,000 hectares by the end of 2025.

“Agbeyewa Farms is today the largest cassava farm in Africa. With this collaboration, we are positioned to become the largest in the world. This is not just growth — it is transformation. This is not just farming — this is industrial repositioning.”

Aiyeleso added that Agbeyewa’s operating model is anchored on four core pillars — cultivation, aggregation, agro-processing, and agro-training, driven by full mechanization. He also reaffirmed the vision of Mr. Niyi John Olajide to curb unemployment in Nigeria through Agebyewa’s commitment to economic empowerment, revealing that its workforce has now grown to over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs, with thousands more supported across its value chain.

Both leaders applauded President Tinubu for championing reforms that strengthen private sector participation, unlock investment, and remove systemic barriers to growth.

Delivering the technical framework for the partnership, Engr. Mathew O. Owolabi, Technical Adviser to NALDA, described the MoU as a strategic collaboration designed to share resources, mitigate operational risks, strengthen transparency, and unlock long-term institutional value for Nigeria’s agricultural economy.

The ceremony culminated in the formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between NALDA and Agbeyewa Farms Limited, signaling the beginning of an ambitious new era of land expansion, cassava industrialization, value chain development, and large-scale job creation across Nigeria.

“Every Mother Deserves a Safe Delivery, Every Child a Healthy Start”.

“Every Mother Deserves a Safe Delivery, Every Child a Healthy Start”.

....Oluwatuyi Lays Foundation for Post-Natal Ward at Aaye Health Centre, Igede-Ekiti.

By Asubiojo G.O

In a renewed bid to strengthen maternal and child healthcare delivery at the grassroots, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Oluwagbenga Oluwatuyi (CHENCO), on Friday laid the foundation for a Post-Natal/Delivery Ward at the Aaye Health Centre, Igede-Ekiti.

The foundation-laying ceremony, attended by His Royal Highness, Oba Aladesuru James Adelusi, the Onigede of Igede, as well as members of the Game Changing Team, community leaders, health professionals, and other dignitaries, underscored the council’s determination to deepen access to quality healthcare services for residents of the area.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Oluwatuyi reiterated his administration’s resolve to make healthcare delivery a central focus of governance. He explained that the proposed post-natal ward would serve as a safe, modern, and well-equipped environment for expectant mothers, providing comprehensive care before, during, and after childbirth.

The council boss assured that the project would be completed by February next year, and disclosed that the new facility would be named in honour of His Royal Highness, Oba Aladesuru J.A., the Onigede of Igede, whom he described as “a living legend whose wisdom and leadership continue to inspire development.”

Hon. Oluwatuyi also used the occasion to announce the installation of ten solar-powered streetlights in every community or street within the local government every three months, saying the initiative would boost security and night-time visibility in communities.

In his response, Oba Aladesuru J.A. lauded the chairman’s developmental strides, describing him as “a man of wisdom who listens to his people and acts in their best interest.” The monarch prayed for divine guidance and strength for the council boss to sustain his people-centered initiatives.

Also speaking, the Medical Officer of Health (MOH), Dr. Dele George Akomolafe, commended Hon. Oluwatuyi for his pragmatic leadership and consistent investment in the health sector. He said the Aaye Health Centre was gradually transforming into a formidable general hospital due to the quality of facilities being provided and the professionalism of the staff.

Dr. Akomolafe further noted that the Irepodun/Ifelodun chairman stands out among his peers in Ekiti State for his proactive management of healthcare facilities, as he personally supports the financial and maintenance obligations of all health centres in the council and the two LCDAs—an uncommon commitment that complements the efforts of the Ekiti State Primary Healthcare Development Agency.

In her remarks, the Head of Local Administration (HLA), Mrs. Deborah Akinbobola-B, expressed appreciation to the chairman for his continuous support toward strengthening the health sector, describing his leadership as “visionary and people-oriented.”

The event was also attended by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Remi Alade, alongside several directors, traditional chiefs, and members of the Game Changing Team, Oba-In - Council, who all applauded the initiative as a clear testament to responsive leadership.

The project aligns with the visionary health agenda of the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), whose administration has remained steadfast in upgrading healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the well-being of citizens across the state.

The foundation-laying ceremony thus marks another milestone in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government’s quest to deliver inclusive, people-driven governance, and to complement the state government’s broader mission of ensuring universal access to quality and affordable healthcare services.

The addition of 10 Permanent Secretaries, a strategic move by BAO.

The addition of 10 Permanent Secretaries, a strategic move by BAO.

Powered by: Ekiti Advancement Frontiers 

1. It will enhance Administrative Efficiency: By increasing the number of Permanent Secretaries, Governor Oyebanji's government can better decentralize the administrative workload. This allows for more focused attention on various sectors, improving the efficiency of service delivery. Each Perm Sec will oversee different ministries, ensuring that decisions are made more swiftly and that policies are implemented without delays.

2. Strengthened Policy Implementation: Permanent Secretaries play a pivotal role in ensuring that the government’s policies are executed effectively. With the addition of more Perm Secs, it becomes easier to oversee and coordinate complex governmental operations, aligning them with the administration's priorities. This will likely lead to better policy rollouts and smoother implementation of Governor Oyebanji’s strategic initiatives.

3.An Improved Inter-Departmental Coordination: More Permanent Secretaries will mean better coordination across various ministries and agencies of government. They serve as key links between the political leadership and civil servants, ensuring that there is harmony in the execution of government programs. This also helps minimize conflicts or overlaps between ministries and enhances the overall functioning of the government.

4. Fostering Professionalism: The addition of more Perm Secs could also signal a focus on professionalizing the civil service, as it brings in experienced and seasoned administrators. This is essential for long-term institutional growth, ensuring that the government is guided by competent professionals who prioritize integrity and efficiency.

5. Strategic Focus on Development Goals: With more Perm Secs in place, Governor Oyebanji can designate specific leaders for strategic sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, and finance. This specialization ensures that each sector receives the required attention and resources for growth, which can ultimately contribute to the administration’s broader developmental goals.

6. Boosting Public Trust: By ensuring more effective governance through well-managed ministries, the public is likely to perceive the administration as more organized and responsive. This could foster greater trust in the government, enhancing Oyebanji’s leadership credibility and political capital.

In essence, the addition of 10 Permanent Secretaries by BAO will streamline operations within the government, enhance the capacity for policy implementation, and foster better public service outcomes—ultimately positioning Governor Oyebanji's administration for greater success. 

#BAOEAF

#BAOContinuity. 

#BAOcertified.

📢 Venite University Opens Application for Vice Chancellor Position.

📢 Venite University Opens Application for Vice Chancellor Position.

Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, is calling on qualified and visionary academics to apply for the position of Vice Chancellor as the institution enters a new phase of growth and innovation.

See the attached image for full details or read the complete announcement via the link below:  

👉 https://veniteuniversity.edu.ng/2025/11/06/venite-university-opens-application-for-vice-chancellor-position/

#VeniteUniversity #ViceChancellor #IloroEkiti #EducationNews #AcademicLeadership #UniversityRecruitment

EKSG sets up Grievance Redress Mechanism Committee on land use.

EKSG sets up Grievance Redress Mechanism Committee on land use.

...maps out strategy to boost agricultural investment.

The Ekiti State Government Steering Committee on Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land Intensive Agriculture (FRILIA) has inaugurated a  Grievance Redress Mechanism(GRM) committee with the commitment to run inclusive land administration to proffer solution to all land disputes and boost crop production in the state.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji who is the Chairman of the Committee said the step became necessary to fast track settlement of grievances that emanate from land use to enhance peace and harmony in the sector

Speaking through the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade at the inauguration of the Committee in Ado-Ekiti , the Governor stated that  the core objective of the GRM Committee is to foster a climate of trust and accountability by ensuring that complaints, disputes and appeals related to agricultural investments are addressed promptly and effectively.

He said the present administration in the State was embarking on the implementation of the FRILIA project in its quest to deepen the ease of doing business through State Action On Business Enabling Reform.

According to Governor Oyebanji, the Grievance Redress Mechanism would work hand in hand with the Technical and the Steering Committees based on the key principles of (FRILLA) to resolving issues

He  therefore charged the GRM to be impartial, transparent, accessible by all including vulnerable groups and work in line with the national and international human rights standard

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Technical Committee, Mr Olusanmi Akintobi said the GRM would provide a clear pathway for all stakeholders, communities, farmers and investors to resolve disputes fairly adding that this would  on the long run boost agricultural production in the state 

"This GRM Toolkit provides Ekiti State with robust, fair and sustainable system for managing conflicts by  offering a clear and trusted channel for dispute resolution. It protects the rights of communities and investors alike, thereby encourage agricultural investments and promoting a harmonious and productive agricultural sector in the state" he said

Members of the GRM Committee inaugurated are; representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Bureau of Land Services, Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, (EKDIPA)  Ministry of Local Government and Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security,  

Others are; Representatives of Ministry of Environment, Office of Surveyor General, FADAMA and Forestry Commission

The forum was attended by dignitaries including the State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mrs Tayo Adeola,  Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands, Survey and eGIS, Prof James Olaleye; the Chairman of the State  Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Olaniran Olatona; the  Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Babatope Ojo; the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Environment, Mr Tunde Balogun and representatives from other MDAs.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade who represented Governor Oyebanji at the event is the Deputy Chairman of the Steering Committee.

FUOYE Governing Council Announces Professor Joshua Ogunwole as new Vice Chancellor.

FUOYE Governing Council Announces Professor Joshua Ogunwole as new Vice Chancellor.

The new Vice Chancetior, Professor Joshua Olalekan OGUNWOLE The Governing Council of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) has announced the appointment of Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole as the institution’s new Vice Chancellor. 

The announcement was made by the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba, CON, OFR, SAN, during a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, November 6, 2025. Professor Ogunwole will formally assume office on February 11, 2026, following the completion of the tenure of the incumbent Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina. Senator Ndoma Egba described the selection process as rigorous, competitive, and transparent, noting that it was one of the most competitive in the university's history. According to him, a total of 83 candidates applied for the position; 64 through the online portal and 19 nominated by the Search Team, with two of the nominees also submitting online applications. Following the initial screening, 51 applicants were disqualified for failing to meet all criteria, leaving 30 candidates on the shortlist. These shortlisted applicants underwent an evidence based evaluation of their credentials and achievements, with a cut off mark of 70 percent. At the conclusion of the process, three candidates emerged as top performers with Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole scoring an outstanding 89.9 percent. Professor Alonge Akindele Folarin and Professor Ajewole Moses Oludare placed second and third place respectively.

Senator Ndoma Egba noted that Professor Ogunwole’s exceptional performance, visionary leadership, and distinguished record of excellence made him the standout candidate to lead FUOYE into its next phase of growth. “We are confident that Professor Ogunwole's expertise, discipline, and visionary approach will drive the University’s continued growth and success,” the Pro Chancellor said. “His appointment represents a new chapter of innovation, excellence, and integrity for FUOYE.” 

The Pro Chancellor, however, appealed to all stakeholders to put aside rancour and divisions that may have arisen during the selection process. “The appointment of a new Vice Chancellor has generated some tension within and outside the campus,” Senator Ndoma Egba acknowledged. “By this appointment, all such rancour and acrimony should end. I urge all applicants and members of the University community to sheath their swords and join hands with the new Vice Chancellor to build a greater FUOYE.” He also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, commending him for his remarkable leadership and developmental strides. “You are leaving with your head held high,” Ndoma Egba said. “You have distinguished yourself above your predecessors, particularly in the area of infrastructural development. | congratulate you for finishing well.” — Senator Ndoma Egba further thanked members of the Governing Council for their commitment, doggedness, and thoroughness throughout the selection process, expressing gratitude for their support and understanding. Born on July 23, 1967, in lbadan, Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole hails from Ogbomoso, Oyo State. A renowned soil scientist with over three decades of experience in teaching, research, and academic administration, he holds B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees in Soil Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he began his academic career. 

He has served in various institutions, including Anmadu Bello University, Adamawa State University, Federal University Dutsin Ma, Bowen University, and the Federal University Oye Ekiti, contributing immensely to academic development, capacity building, and research advancement. As Vice Chancellor of Bowen University (2018-2023), Professor Ogunwole led major infrastructural projects, improved staff and student welfare, and achieved a financial turnaround that boosted the university's internally generated revenue and cleared inherited deficits. Before his new appointment, he served as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Strategic Partnerships, Research, Innovation, and Linkages) at FUOYE, where he championed research collaborations and innovation driven initiatives. A recipient of international fellowships such as Fulbright (USA), TWAS (India/Sri Lanka), and Alexander von Humboldt (Germany), Professor Ogunwole is also a Fellow of the African Scientific Institute (ASI) and the Soil Science Society of Nigeria (SSSN), and a Council Member of the Nigeria Institute of Soil Science (NISS). 

His tenure as FUOYE's fifth substantive Vice-Chancellor will commence on February 11, 2026.

Oyebanji at NCW meeting, rates Ekiti high in road infrastructure.

Oyebanji at NCW meeting, rates Ekiti high in road infrastructure.

.…As Works Minister Hails President Tinubu, Ekiti Gov’s  strides in Infrastructure Dev.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed satisfaction with the remarkable progress recorded by his administration in road construction and rehabilitation, noting that the road revolution has significantly changed the face of infrastructure development and brought new life to communities across the State.

The Governor, who stated this on Thursday while speaking at the opening session of the 30th Meeting of the National Council on Works (NCW) held in Ado Ekiti, said his administration remains committed to investing in infrastructure as a major drive of economic growth, social development and regional integration. 

The four- day event was attended by Commissioners for Works and Permanent Secretaries in state ministry of works across the 36 states of the Federation as well as other critical stakeholders and development partners. 

Governor Oyebanji said since the inception of his administration, the State has witnessed a renewed commitment to infrastructural development, describing the on-going road revolution as deliberate efforts to open up communities, ease transportation and improve access to market, schools and healthcare facilities.

While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government for its commitment to infrastructural development in the state through interventions in some of the federal roads, the Governor explained that his administration has also complemented the gesture by embarking on the repairs of the Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki dual carriage way which is a federal road.

 “Since inception, our administration has made significant strides in infrastructure development; we have embarked on road revolution in all nooks and crannies of our dear State. We are proud of the progress we have made in road constructions and rehabilitations. However, we also recognize that there is still much work to be done. We need to continue to invest in our infrastructure, support innovations and research, and foster collaboration between government, industry and academia.

“While appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructural development in Ekiti State through his interventions on some federal roads, our administration has also complemented this gesture by embarking on the repairs of the Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki dual carriage federal road”, the  Governor asserted.

Earlier in his address, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, who was represented by the Minister of State for Works, Hon Bello Muhammad, commended both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for their shared commitment to infrastructure development, noting that the partnership between the federal and state governments has continue to yield results under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

 

The Minister particularly commended Governor Oyebanji for the successful completion of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport, describing it as a landmark project that has repositioned the state for greater economic growth and investment opportunities. 

Highlighting the importance of the National Council on Works meeting, the minister said it is a critical forum for reshaping the future of infrastructure delivery and engineering policy in Nigeria and that it also allows  to reflect, recalibrate and re-strategized, drawing from the experience and expertise of stakeholders across federal, state and local levels.

The Minister explained that the meeting is expected to promote accountability in project delivery, invest in research and modern technologies, empower engineers with tools and training, monitor and evaluate rigorously and more importantly, serve Nigerians with discipline, professionalism, integrity and excellence.

He assured that the Federal Ministry of Works remains committed to innovative practices, such as use of digital project monitoring, introduction of geotechnical mapping and data tools for road design and maintenance, encourage local content and indigenous technology, among others.  

In his welcome address, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo, who thanked the federal ministry of works for allowing the state to host the council meeting, said it was a testament to the State’s growing reputation as a hub of responsible governance and infrastructural innovation. 

Adebayo expressed confident that the deliberations at this Council will yield actionable resolutions that will strengthen collaborations between the Federal and the State Governments, improve funding mechanisms, promote the use of modern technologies and indigenous materials in construction and more importantly, it will reinforce collective resolve to build roads and infrastructure that stand the test of time and connects not just places but also opportunities and people.