In a significant development aimed at boosting regional food production and improving safety, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has expressed a renewed commitment to strengthening both agricultural collaboration and security ties with Oyo State. This renewed synergy was revealed through a statement issued by the governor’s media aide, Kayode Akinmade, following a closed-door meeting between Governor Abiodun and his Oyo State counterpart, Governor Seyi Makinde, held in Ibadan on Tuesday. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Governor Abiodun underscored the historical and cultural connection between the two southwestern states. He reminded the press that Ogun State was once part of the Old Western Region, with Ibadan serving as its capital, a legacy that continues to shape the two states’ strategic alignment. “I came to see my brother, Governor Makinde, to discuss matters of mutual benefit. Historically, Ogun was under the Old Western Region, which had Ibadan as its capital,” Governor Abiodun said. He emphasized that Ogun and Oyo States share deep cultural, social, and economic relationships, which are reflected in their current engagements with large-scale investors. According to him, the strategic alliance between both states provides a solid foundation to enhance economic growth, particularly through agriculture. Strengthening Agriculture for Food Security Governor Abiodun identified agriculture as a critical area for renewed cooperation. He reiterated the urgent need for both states to focus on food sustainability, by promoting local production and consumption. “This is the right time for us to intensify our agricultural cooperation. We must focus on growing what we eat and eating what we grow to transform our region into Nigeria’s food hub,” he explained. Abiodun praised the agricultural strides made by Oyo State, while also highlighting Ogun’s active agricultural zones in Odeda, Imeko, and Yewa North, which share borders with Oyo. These locations, he said, are already making substantial contributions to the region’s food production capacity. Security as a Foundation for Development Beyond agriculture, the conversation between the governors also addressed security as a pillar of socio-economic development. Governor Abiodun emphasized the need for robust security collaboration between the two states, citing that development cannot be achieved without peace and safety. He applauded the performance of the Amotekun Corps, the South-West Security Network, noting its growing relevance in regional intelligence gathering and law enforcement. “We commend the Amotekun initiative for its critical role in intelligence sharing and maintaining order across our states,” he added. This development reflects a broader effort within the South-West geopolitical zone to foster regional integration, improve food self-reliance, and strengthen internal security. As Nigeria continues to navigate complex challenges in food inflation and rising insecurity, Ogun and Oyo’s unified approach could become a template for sustainable governance and strategic subregional alliances.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has outlined the reasons behind his administration’s decision to establish a University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology. The institution aims to produce specialized graduates to enhance the local economy and the state’s overall development. The Governor made this statement during a thanksgiving Mass at St. Winifred’s Parish, Ihugh. The Mass was held in honor of his newly appointed Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Denen Aondoakaa. He assured attendees that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the immediate commencement of the university, which will be located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area. Boosting the Economy and Advancing Agriculture Governor Alia emphasized that the university’s establishment is crucial for producing skilled graduates who will contribute to economic growth. “The university will not only train graduates but will also stimulate the economic development of the host community and the entire state,” he noted. He further highlighted the importance of engaging youth in agricultural activities to promote food security. The university will focus on research to improve agricultural practices and transform livelihoods in Benue State. Strengthening Benue’s Agricultural Heritage Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to reducing poverty by leveraging the state’s vast agricultural potential. “Benue State will continue to uphold its reputation as the Food Basket of the Nation by maximizing its agricultural resources,” he added. Warning Against Illegal Land Taxes The Governor issued a stern warning against illegal taxation, commonly referred to as “matching ground,” by landowners. He advised those owning land in Ihugh market not to exploit the university’s establishment by inflating land prices beyond reasonable limits. A Day of Thanksgiving and Celebration During the thanksgiving Mass, Rev. Fr. Isaac Shalegh emphasized the importance of humility and gratitude, commending Mr. Aondoakaa for returning to God in thanksgiving after his appointment. The event’s highlight was the decoration of Governor Alia, Mr. Aondoakaa, and the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Sir James Iorpuu, in traditional Tiv attire by the Church’s Laity Council. Focus Keywords: Image Keyphrase: “Benue University of Agriculture groundbreaking ceremony” Meta Description: Governor Hyacinth Alia unveils plans for the Benue University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology to boost economic growth, advance agriculture, and reduce poverty in the state. Tags: This optimized post ensures quick load times, clarity, and excellent SEO compliance to meet Rank Math’s standards.Why Governor Alia is Establishing the Benue University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has outlined the reasons behind his administration’s decision to establish a University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology. The institution aims to produce specialized graduates to enhance the local economy and the state’s overall development. The Governor made this statement during a thanksgiving Mass at St. Winifred’s Parish, Ihugh. The Mass was held in honor of his newly appointed Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Denen Aondoakaa. He assured attendees that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the immediate commencement of the university, which will be located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area. Boosting the Economy and Advancing Agriculture Governor Alia emphasized that the university’s establishment is crucial for producing skilled graduates who will contribute to economic growth. “The university will not only train graduates but will also stimulate the economic development of the host community and the entire state,” he noted. He further highlighted the importance of engaging youth in agricultural activities to promote food security. The university will focus on research to improve agricultural practices and transform livelihoods in Benue State. Strengthening Benue’s Agricultural Heritage Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to reducing poverty by leveraging the state’s vast agricultural potential. “Benue State will continue to uphold its reputation as the Food Basket of the Nation by maximizing its agricultural resources,” he added. Warning Against Illegal Land Taxes The Governor issued a stern warning against illegal taxation, commonly referred to as “matching ground,” by landowners. He advised those owning land in Ihugh market not to exploit the university’s establishment by inflating land prices beyond reasonable limits. A Day of Thanksgiving and Celebration During the thanksgiving Mass, Rev. Fr. Isaac Shalegh emphasized the importance of humility and gratitude, commending Mr. Aondoakaa for returning to God in thanksgiving after his appointment. The event’s highlight was the decoration of Governor Alia, Mr. Aondoakaa, and the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Sir James Iorpuu, in traditional Tiv attire by the Church’s Laity Council. Governor Hyacinth Alia unveils plans for the Benue University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology to boost economic growth, advance agriculture, and reduce poverty in the state READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
