Key stakeholders have outlined a roadmap for uplifting the economy of Ijesaland, focusing on the agricultural sector’s untapped potential.
This was the central theme at the Investiture Ceremony of Engineer Johnson Olowokere as the 3rd President of the Ilesa Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (ILECCIMA).
In a thought-provoking keynote titled “Building and Promoting Commerce Through Sustainable Agriculture Business in Ijesaland: The Place of Sustainable and Modern Best Practices in Agribusiness”, renowned academic and World Bank Consultant, Professor Foluso Okunmadewa, highlighted the vast opportunities for value addition in agriculture.
He lamented the absence of government and investor support for processing raw agricultural products into high-value commodities, which could significantly enhance the region’s economic returns.
Drawing attention to Ijesaland’s abundant natural and human resources, Professor Okunmadewa emphasized the feasibility of establishing thriving value chain enterprises. “The potential for transforming raw agricultural products into more valuable states is immense. Such efforts not only yield higher economic returns but also foster greater agricultural productivity”.
He called on Ilesa Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture to prioritize value chain development for small and medium-scale processors and investors, urging the government to create enabling environments through supportive policies, improved rural infrastructure, and energy access.
Renowned industrialist Alhaji Lateef Bakare also contributed to the discussions by addressing the challenges facing the agricultural sector.
He pointed out the difficulties small-scale farmers encounter in accessing loans due to restrictive eligibility criteria from institutions such as the Bank of Agriculture.
Alhaji Bakare stressed the need for reform in land allocation systems to better support large-scale farming and advocated for establishing processing facilities directly connected to farmers. These measures, he argued, would enhance farmers’ earnings and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
He also highlighted the importance of making rural areas more livable to attract younger generations to farming.
Alhaji Bakare further tasked ILECCIMA with developing a robust structure to support agricultural growth, suggesting the creation of a dedicated secretariat to implement programs and policies aimed at advancing the sector.
In a joint communiqué issued at the end of the panel discussion, experts such as Professor Morenike Adetunji, Professor of Agricultural Economics at LAUTECH, Ogbomoso, Dr. Popoola Muideen, Principal of Leventis Foundation School, Ilesa, and Dr. Glolabo Oni, Educationist and Public Analyst, stressed the need for youth development in agriculture.
They called for extensive training and support for the region’s youth, urging the adoption of digital applications and technology in agriculture, as well as value addition to all farm produce across Ijesaland.
They also highlighted the importance of research avenues, greater focus on cash crop production, and a collaborative approach between traditional rulers and government on land allocation.
The panel emphasized the necessity of a mutual relationship between the government and local communities to ensure productive support.
In his remarks, the outgoing president of ILECCIMA, Honourable Olusola Joshua, congratulated Engineer Olowokere and his team, stating that a solid foundation had been laid for the accelerated growth of the chamber and the promotion of investments in Ijesaland.
He urged the new leadership to focus on membership growth, facilitating investment opportunities, and establishing a functional ILECCIMA Secretariat.
In his acceptance speech, the new ILECCIMA President, Engineer Johnson Olowokere, underscored the importance of partnerships with local authorities and collective efforts in driving youth and women empowerment initiatives.
He called on all six local government councils in Ijesaland to initiate and support private-driven development projects aimed at uplifting the youth and women.
Olowokere expressed confidence in the potential of the Ijesa Development Council (IDC) and ILECCIMA working together to achieve these goals.
The new president also advocated for the creation of a functional Ijesa Industrial Estate, which he believes will play a crucial role in supporting local entrepreneurship and attracting investment to the region. “It is time to establish a functional Ijesa Industrial Estate to support entrepreneurship,” Olowokere stated.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration and continued support from local businesses and community members to achieve these objectives.
In his vision for Ijesaland’s future, Olowokere spoke about expanding the Osomaalo concept of entrepreneurship and innovations, which is central to the region’s economic growth.
He reiterated ILECCIMA’s expanded role within the Ijesa Development Council and its goal to reposition Ijesaland as the economic hub of Osun State.
The event also recognized the contributions of several notable figures, with awards presented to Late Pa Folorunso Awomolo, Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Chief Yinka Fasuyi, Mr. Olasupo Shadiya, Dr. Olu Olujide, Honourable Olusola Joshua, Architect Ayo Osunloye, and Mrs. Oluwayemisi Olukanni.
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