By Cecilia Attah
In a bid to bolster the longstanding partnership between the United Kingdom and Oyo State, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr Jonny Baxter, embarked on a high-level visit to the state from the 5th to the 7th of March 2024.
During his visit, Mr. Baxter engaged in fruitful discussions with the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Engr. Oluwaseyi Makinde, and other members of the state Assembly.
Mr Baxter emphasized the UK’s commitment to enhancing trade and economic development opportunities in agribusiness within Oyo State. He highlighted the importance of collaboration for a more prosperous relationship between the UK and Oyo State.
“We very much want to continue our partnerships and support the efforts of the people of Oyo state to enhance economic prosperity and share expertise were useful.
“I believe our partnership, at all levels, will continue to grow and I look forward to playing my part.”
The Deputy High Commissioner also reaffirmed the UK’s dedication to facilitating investments in the state, particularly in agro-storage and research facilities.
One of the key highlights of Mr Baxter’s visit was the commissioning of the new British International Investment (BII) funded Valency agro-processing complex in Ibadan. This initiative aims to strengthen partnerships with local farmers and processing centres, ultimately benefiting up to 60,000 farmers and creating around 2,800 jobs within low-income communities.
Speaking on this intervention, Mr Baxter expressed his delight at witnessing UK investment contributing to enhancing value addition in Nigeria’s food processing and export capabilities. He emphasized the significance of sustainable agriculture practices that benefit people, climate, and nature, underscoring the positive impact such initiatives can have on economic growth and livelihood opportunities across Nigeria.
The UK’s sustainable agriculture work in Nigeria aims to catalyse an agriculture and food systems transformation that delivers benefits for people, climate, and nature.
“I am delighted to see this new UK investment come to fruition to help enhance value addition in Nigeria’s food processing and export capabilities, creating jobs and improving livelihood opportunities across the nation. We look forward to continuing to support Nigeria’s agriculture sector and the opportunities this provides for its economic growth and it’s population.”
Throughout his visit, the Deputy High Commissioner engaged with key stakeholders in the state government, business contacts, and traditional leaders to assess the impact of ongoing projects and initiatives on the lives of people in Oyo State. These interactions aimed at exploring further investment and trade partnerships that could potentially boost economic growth and create more job opportunities within the state.
Mr Baxter’s visit signifies a strong commitment from the UK to support Nigeria’s agriculture sector and foster mutually beneficial relationships that drive sustainable development and prosperity. As partnerships continue to grow at all levels, both nations look forward to leveraging expertise and resources for shared success in advancing economic prosperity and enhancing livelihoods in Oyo State.
