Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has highlighted policy inconsistency and lack of continuity as significant barriers to food security and economic growth across Africa. Speaking at the unveiling of Okun Rice in Abeokuta, Obasanjo argued that the government should avoid direct involvement in production. Instead, he emphasized that governments should create environments that allow the private sector to lead economic and agricultural development.
Obasanjo revealed that Nigeria’s current food insecurity could have been mitigated if there had been a consistent approach to agricultural policies over the years. He expressed frustration that new initiatives often dismiss past efforts, creating gaps that stall long-term progress. He criticised a trend of celebrating projects as “firsts” when, in reality, similar attempts had been made before but lacked continuity.
Acknowledging the work of Dr. Biodun Onalaja, CEO of Hyst Global Business Limited, Obasanjo commended him for investing in local rice production, which contributes to food sufficiency in Nigeria. He also encouraged Onalaja to support local rice farmers, ensuring sustainable growth within the industry.
Onalaja lauded Obasanjo’s contributions to agriculture, noting that his support has been invaluable. He shared that Okun Rice Mill has the capacity to process 100 metric tonnes of rice daily and is focused on providing job opportunities and sustainable food production.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, praised the state’s public-private partnership (PPP) model as an effective approach to bolstering food security. Represented by Alhaji Suraj Ishola, Owotomo reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring a conducive environment for agribusiness.
