Breaking: Ogun, Oyo Governors Meet on Food Security, Strengthen Ties in Odeda, Other Border Areas

By Timothy Odedina

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has emphasised the need to strengthen economic collaboration with Oyo State, particularly in food production and security, to benefit both states.

Governor Abiodun stated this during a meeting with his Oyo State counterpart, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday in Ibadan. The closed-door discussion focused on enhancing agricultural cooperation and addressing security challenges in their neighbouring states.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Governor Abiodun highlighted the deep cultural, historical, and economic ties between Ogun and Oyo, noting that both states were part of the old Western Region.

*”I have come to see my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, to discuss matters of mutual interest. Ogun State was part of the old Western Region where Ibadan was the capital. We have very strong ties, both cultural and economic, with the people and government of Oyo State,”* he said.

He further stressed the importance of agricultural collaboration, particularly in ensuring food security and sovereignty. *”Our discussions centred on how we can further collaborate to ensure that we eat what we grow and grow what we eat, turning our region into the breadbasket of the country,”* he added.

Governor Abiodun commended Oyo State’s efforts in agriculture while noting Ogun’s own initiatives, including farms in Odeda, Imeko, and Yewa North—areas that share borders with Oyo State.

On security, the governor acknowledged the role of the Southwest Security Network, Amotekun, in enhancing regional safety through intelligence gathering and other security operations. He emphasised that security remains a key driver for socio-economic development in both states.

The meeting underscores the commitment of both governors to foster stronger partnerships in agriculture and security, particularly in border regions like Odeda, to ensure sustainable growth and stability.