By Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq.
Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s relentless pursuit of economic prosperity for Ekiti State is yielding remarkable results.
In the last two weeks alone, he has facilitated four major Federal Government-backed agricultural initiatives that will not only revolutionize agribusiness in the state but also solidify Ekiti’s position as an emerging agro-tourism hub.
These achievements are particularly significant when viewed in relation to the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, which serves as a strategic gateway for agricultural exports, tourism, and economic growth.
The Federal Government’s recognition of Ekiti as the pilot state for agriculture in the South West is a game-changer.
This status brings increased federal support, investment opportunities, and partnerships that will enhance agricultural productivity and commercial farming—creating an ecosystem that will directly benefit the Ekiti Agro-Allied Airport as a logistics hub for fresh produce and agro-based exports
Also the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) Agricultural Skills Programme will equip farmers, agripreneurs, and agro-tourism operators with the expertise needed to maximize productivity. As farmers and agribusinesses adopt modern farming techniques, the demand for efficient transportation of agricultural goods will rise, making the Ekiti Agro-Allied Airport a key facilitator for farm-to-market movement, both locally and internationally.
In addition , the First soil assessment laboratory in the South West now located in Ekiti, farmers can access vital data for improving crop yields and soil health. This advancement ensures that Ekiti’s agricultural produce meets international quality standards, positioning the Agro-Allied Airport as a key link in exporting premium farm products to global markets. The airport will serve as a critical infrastructure for agribusiness exporters looking to ship fresh and processed agricultural products to international destinations.
Approval of a Food Processing Equipment and Machinery Development Institute (FOPEMDI) to be located in Ekiti is a fundamental agent of inestimable economic fortune
The establishment of the Food Processing Equipment and Machinery Development Institute (FOPEMDI) in Ekiti will enhance agro-industrial processing, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing value-added agricultural production.
This directly complements the Ekiti Agro-Allied Airport, which will facilitate the export of processed agricultural products such as cassava derivatives, packaged vegetables, and fruit concentrates—boosting the state’s agribusiness competitiveness on the global stage.
The synergy between these agricultural achievements and the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is crystal clear.
With improved farming techniques, agro-processing facilities, and export potential, Ekiti is set to attract agricultural investors, researchers, and tourists interested in agribusiness. The airport will serve as a vital entry point for these visitors, facilitating knowledge exchange and agribusiness partnerships.
The airport provides a direct link between farmers, agro-processors, and international markets. As Ekiti’s agricultural output grows, the airport will ensure seamless logistics, reducing transportation costs and increasing profitability for farmers and agribusiness owners.
The growth of agriculture and agro-processing will lead to an increase in agritourism activities such as farm tours, agricultural exhibitions, and food festivals. The airport will make it easier for tourists and investors to access Ekiti, further promoting the state’s cultural and ecological tourism assets.
And in Governor Oyebanji’s characteristics of a futuristic approach to development,both the Ekiti State Tourism Policy and Ekiti State Tourism Development Master Plan conspicuously situate Agro- Tourism as a potent driver of its tourism economy .
Governor Oyebanji’s strategic approach to integrating agriculture, tourism, and air transportation is a masterstroke in economic planning.
By leveraging the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, these federal agricultural initiatives will not only transform farming and agribusiness but also elevate Ekiti as Nigeria’s leading agro-tourism destination.
Indeed, Oyebanji’s agro-tourism aura is a blessing to Ekiti—a visionary pathway to prosperity, sustainability, and global recognition.
….. Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre is the Director General Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development