Obafemi Owode Local Government Signs Agribusiness MoU with South African Firms
Owode-Egba — The Obafemi Owode Local Government (OOLG) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two South African firms, Izindonga Group and Maya Foods, to establish a poultry farming and value chain agribusiness project in the Obafemi axis of the council area.
The Executive Chairman, Amb. Adesina ’Lanre Ogunsola, FCPA, hosted the delegation in his office at Owode-Egba following an inspection of the proposed site for the investment.
Ogunsola reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of the local government, protection of farmers’ interests, food security, youth empowerment, and job creation. “The investors are ready to incorporate everyone and boost markets for all to succeed,” he stated.
The Chairman also showcased Ogun State’s public-private partnership efforts under Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, by taking the team on a tour of the Gateway International Agro Cargo Airport — a facility with direct flights connecting to global markets. He noted the proximity of Obafemi Owode to Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, as an additional advantage.
The delegation further visited the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, where they met with the Honourable Commissioner, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, for extensive discussions on the investment’s benefits to farmers and the state.
“Today’s visit is both strategic and symbolic,” Ogunsola said. “It reflects our shared commitment to enhance partnerships that will drive food security, economic growth, and sustainable livelihoods for our people.”
He added: “We are here with our esteemed partners from South Africa, whose interest in our locality is focused on developing a modern, integrated agribusiness model that includes production, processing, and value chain enhancement.”
The Council Chairman sought the Ministry’s support in regulatory compliance, farmer integration, and extension services, expressing confidence that the project would become a model for public-private partnership in agriculture across Ogun State and beyond.
Commissioner Highlights State’s Farmer Database
In his response, Commissioner Bolu Owotomo commended the Council Chairman for complementing the state government’s efforts to increase protein availability for residents. He urged the investors to consider incorporating other value chains.
“We have the Ogun State Farmers Information Management System (OGFIMS), where all farmers in Ogun State are registered with their data captured,” Owotomo said. “Ogun is the only state in Nigeria with that system, having registered over 160,000 farmers across value chains.”
He described Ogun as the Industrial Capital of Nigeria, with proximity to Lagos and other South-Western states. “It is a gateway state with agro-based raw materials and guaranteed security of lives and property,” he added, encouraging the investors to see Ogun State as their home.
South African CEO Projects 5,000 Jobs
Mr. Zakhele Maya, CEO of Izindonga Group and Maya Foods, expressed satisfaction with the site tour and engagements with stakeholders in Obafemi Owode. He noted that the warm acceptance by the local community had solidified his interest in the investment.
Maya announced that clearing and implementation of pens and other structures would commence in September 2026. “It is high time African countries work together to fight food security and unemployment,” he stated boldly, adding that the project would employ over 5,000 youths and women.
The MoU signing also received royal blessings. His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, prayed for the investors and urged them not to entertain any fear. He was joined by other royal fathers from Owode, Orile-Imo, and other communities.
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Report compiled from official sources
