Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, have agreed to strengthen ties to enhance agricultural productivity and food security through technology and research.
The collaboration, which also involves the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), aims to introduce innovative farming practices and public-private partnerships to accelerate agricultural development in both Oyo state and Sierra Leone.
Speaking on Tuesday, March 4, on the theme: “The Power of improved technologies and public-private partnership to accelerate the feed Salone Strategy”, Governor Makinde disclosed the collaboration during President Bio’s three-day visit to Ibadan, which began on March 3, 2025.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the visit focuses on exploring opportunities for collaboration in various sectors, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and leveraging on technology to drive agribusiness development.
President Bio, in his written speech, highlighted Sierra Leone’s efforts in agribusiness development as well as untapped agricultural potential, stressing the importance of leveraging scientific advancements to improve farming practices.
While emphasizing the role of partnership and mutually beneficial collaboration between Sierra Leone and Oyo state, President Bio said, “Our farmers deserve access to the best resources and knowledge available.”
Bio reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to transforming its agricultural sector, not just for immediate gains but for long-term sustainability.
I’m his words, “We are not just looking at immediate gains; we are focused on sustainable practices that will benefit future generations. It is our responsibility to create a resilient agricultural sector that can withstand the challenges of climate change and market fluctuations.
“Embracing modern agricultural technologies will allow us to increase yields, reduce waste, and ensure that our farmers are competitive in the global market. We must invest in training and resources that empower our farmers to utilize these technologies effectively.”
He also underpinned the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating what he called the “Feed Salone Strategy,” which aims to boost food production.
Speaking earlier, Governor Makinde, while welcoming the president and his delegation to the state, emphasized that the collaboration between Oyo and Sierra Leone is more than a diplomatic gesture, stressing that it is a strategic move to empower farmers and deepen economic growth.
Makinde disclosed that since assuming office in 2019, he has prioritized agricultural development through research investments, modern farming tools, and capacity-building initiatives while driving the business spectrum of agriculture through a dedicated Oyo Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA).
“With Sierra Leone’s partnership, we can take agricultural innovation in Oyo State to new heights,” Makinde said.
Both leaders highlighted similar critical areas of mutually beneficial collaboration such as technology transfer, capacity building, and the introduction of modern farming techniques.
Makinde submitted that training programs should be developed to equip local farmers with the necessary skills to maximize productivity. “Empowering our farmers ensures they can thrive in a competitive agricultural environment,” Makinde noted.
Also speaking, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Marcus Ogunbiyi, explained that the federal government of Nigeria is leaving no stone unturned to ensure food security in the country.
He highlighted efforts of the president Bola Tinubu led government in leveraging technology to drive the agricultural sector, exploring economic potential, and creating employment opportunities through value chain expansion.
As part of the 3-day visit, President Bio will tour local agricultural research centers, including Fashola Farms in Oyo, and engage with stakeholders, including farmers and agricultural organizations.
Earlier in a welcome address, the DG IITA and CGIAR regional director for Africa, Simeon Ehui said the visit of the Sierre Leonean President was a testament that the vision for food sufficiency in the African region is achievable.
Present at the event were members of the state executive council, DG OYSADA and Special Adviser on Agriculture to Oyo state governor; Dr Debo Akande, representatives of IITA, other critical stakeholders and international partners.