Abiodun, Makinde parley on food, security

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun disclosed that now is the time for the Ogun state to foster economic cooperation with Oyo State, focusing on food production and ensuring sufficient security in both regions.

He had a meeting with his Oyo State counterpart, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, to discuss issues of food and security affecting the two neighbouring states.

Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting held at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, Abiodun noted that Ogun and Oyo states share strong cultural, historical, and economic ties, underscoring the need for the two states to collaborate for the mutual benefit of their people.

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

“You can see that every day in our subregion, we continue to host major investors, and because of the proximity of both states on so many fronts, a time like this presented itself for us to look at how to ensure that we strengthen that economic relationship in the agricultural sector as we strive for 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.”

The governor expressed pleasure with the efforts of the Oyo State government in the agricultural sector, adding that Ogun State is also contributing through its farms in Odeda, Imeko, and Yewa North areas, which share borders with Oyo State.

The Ogun State leader highlighted the vital importance of security as a driver for the socio-economic development of society, acknowledging the role of the Southwest Security Network, AMOTEKUN, in enhancing the region’s security framework through the provision of intelligence and other security activities.