Oyo govt partners with Odu’a Cooperative to boost food exports

By Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

The Oyo State Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives has announced plans to collaborate with the Odu’a Cooperative Conglomerate Limited to address challenges in the exportation of locally produced food.

The partnership aims to enhance the food value chain, ensuring better processing and market access for agricultural products.

Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Adeniyi Adebisi, disclosed this initiative over the weekend during a visit to the Odu’a Cooperative Conglomerate Limited in Ilesa, Osun State. He highlighted the government’s commitment to resolving export irregularities and improving overall food export standards.

“The Oyo State Government is dedicated to agricultural development, food processing, and economic growth. We recognize the Odu’a Cooperative’s potential in achieving these goals,” Adebisi stated.

He urged the cooperative to collaborate with the Nigeria Export Promotion Council to enhance the global reach of locally produced foods.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olajide Okesade, emphasized the importance of quality assurance and adherence to international export standards. He advised the cooperative to focus on improving product quality, obtaining necessary certifications, and meeting global market requirements.

Acting General Manager of the cooperative, Kayode Oloruntobi, expressed the cooperative’s readiness to work with the Oyo State Government in boosting food exportation.

The Odu’a Cooperative Conglomerate Limited is a regional cooperative society established by the six southwestern states of Nigeria—Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, and Lagos. It has played a vital role in agricultural development, food processing, and economic growth. Over the years, it has modernised equipment, improved management practices, and diversified its product range.