As the passion of the Kwara State Government deepens on agro- industrialization for economic rejuvenation, the State Agro-Industrial Processing Zones(SAPZ) has begun sensitization of local government areas where the project will be sited.
The project, which is expected to drive investment, aid job opportunities and foster wealth creation for citizens of the State will accommodate one agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro LGA; and four agricultural transformation centres in Olodan, Afon, Kínníkínní and Gida Magajia in Ifelodun, Asa, Kaiama and Baruten local government areas, respectively.
The sensitization commenced following the support of the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas who is also the Chairman of the technical committee for the SAPZ project in the State.
Olodan in Ifelodun local government area was the first point of the call during the sensitization exercise as staffers of Kwara SAPZ project were warmly received by the Baale of the community.
Addressing the people of Olodan community, the State Project Coordinator, Kwara SAPZ Project, Engr. Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka revealed that Olodan has long been noted for agriculture without housing any tangible project over the years.
He however, enthused that the developmental yearnings of the community will materialise following the resolve of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to revitalize the agricultural sector of the State.
While assuring the hosts that the project will tremendously transform the economy of the community, the Co-ordinator informed that the agricultural project will enhance food security, tackle poverty and unemployment.
The Coordinator disclosed that the agricultural transformation centre to be sited at Olodan will have a collection centre for milk processing and fattening of livestock. He disclosed that the project in Olodan will also encompass crop farming such as maize, rice and soyabeans.
While commending the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his mission to bring value to Olodan, the Baale of Olodan, Mallam Abdulganiyu Abdullahi, pledged the support of the people of the village to the Governor, promising that Olodan village will accommodate and protect the project.
The Chairman of Olodan Development Association, Mr. Suleiman Mahmud,the Representative of Olodan youths, Mallam Nurudeen Abdullahi and the women leader in the community, Mrs. Mariam Abdulraheem thanked the State government for the developmental strides in Olodan through the SAPZ project.
This project is a welcome development for Kwara State; however, it is lump-sided. All we always read about is the developments and projects in Kwara North. When are such projects and development going to spread to Kwara South? Ekiti Local Government to be exact? It sounds like we are forgotten because of our geographical location in the state. Why not starting by making the Kwara South villages motor-able so they can get their self helped produces to the market? That seems to make sense.