Obafemi Owode LG Chairman , Lanre Ogunsola Hosts South African Agribusiness Giants to Boost Agro-Industrial Partnership
Owode-Egba – In a major push to transform local agriculture into a technology-driven, inclusive economic powerhouse, the Chairman of Obafemi Owode Local Government, Amb. Adesina ‘Lanre Ogunsola, FCPA, has welcomed a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Izindonga Group and Maya Foods for a five-day official visit.
The team, led by Group CEO Zakhele Maya, is in Owode-Egba to finalise plans for replicating the company’s integrated agribusiness model—combining production, processing, and value-chain development—within the local government area.
Amb. Ogunsola, who had travelled to South Africa in December 2025 to assess the group’s operations, said the partnership was inspired by its outgrower scheme that deliberately includes smallholder farmers through modern infrastructure, access to finance, and efficient market linkages.
“Today we are here to begin the replication of Izindonga Group in Obafemi Owode Local Government,” Ogunsola stated. “This initiative complements the efforts of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Governor of Ogun State, as well as the Federal Government of Nigeria.”
The council chairman reaffirmed his vision of turning the local government into a leading agro-industrial hub, citing its fertile land, strategic location, and hardworking population as key assets.
“We are committed to leveraging our farmland, strategic location, and hardworking population to drive food security, youth empowerment, create employment, and boost internally generated revenue,” he said, while assuring the investors of an enabling environment, including access to land, security, and streamlined bureaucracy.
In his response, Zakhele Maya noted that the visit marked a milestone in the partnership between two African giants. He disclosed that this is Izindonga Group’s first direct investment in Nigeria, and the council chairman’s relentless follow-up had materially boosted their confidence in the project.
“Let me say this here in the presence of everyone: we feel your commitment, leadership, and stewardship,” Maya said. “Izindonga Group has had a clear mandate since 2004 to build resilient African-owned agribusiness enterprises that deliver food security, create employment, and deliver agricultural value chains.”
He explained that the group has evolved into fully integrated poultry and food processing enterprises covering production, processing, logistics, and manufacturing. “Our engagement with Obafemi Owode Local Government is not transactional; it is strategic and long-term investment,” he added, praising Ogun State as an investment destination with strong leadership and policy alignment.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Engr. Akeem Babatunde Adesina, Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Works, who commended Amb. Ogunsola’s outstanding performance—surpassing his own record as council chairman 17 years ago. Other dignitaries present included HRH Oba Aremu Fatai Sowemimo (Olu of Owode Egba), Chief Emmanuel Idowu Olude (APC Chairman, Obafemi Owode LG), Hon. Olusola Otesile, and Hon. Mutai Ajayi.
Reported by Ibikunle ‘Kayode
Signed: Prince Segun Soneye, Director of Information, Obafemi Owode Local Government
