Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has inaugurated the Steering Committee of the Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agricultural Investment (FRILIA), marking what he described as a “giant step” towards strengthening food security and inclusive growth in the state.
Speaking at the inauguration held at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa underscored the strategic importance of FRILIA in balancing agricultural investment opportunities with the rights and welfare of host communities. “The inauguration of this Committee marks another giant step in our administration’s quest to ensure food security for the good people of Ondo State through sustainable collaboration involving host communities, Local Government Areas and the State Government,” he said.
He explained that FRILIA was conceived under the Nigerian Governors’ Forum in collaboration with the World Bank and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), and that Ondo State had since embraced it as part of its agricultural transformation drive. “The major objective of this Committee is to ensure we have an enabling environment that guarantees adequate protection for the host communities, ensuring they derive premium returns on their land being used for agricultural purposes in line with national policies on food security goals,” he stated.
The Governor disclosed that 26,000 hectares of land had already been secured at Ori Ohin in Ose Local Government Area for a pilot scheme after a series of consultations with landowners, tenants, and local government officials. He also revealed that the state government has set aside ₦7.5 billion in the agricultural sector budget to support the implementation of FRILIA projects. “I assure you of Government’s commitment to supporting all efforts geared towards creating a prosperous and developed agricultural sector that benefits the generality of the good people of Ondo State,” the Governor pledged.
Chairing the newly inaugurated Steering Committee himself, Governor Aiyedatiwa outlined its responsibilities, which include supervising FRILIA projects, monitoring finances, ensuring transparency in implementation, and conducting post-project evaluations. He charged members to “diligently discharge their responsibilities in line with the committee’s mandate,” stressing that FRILIA must stand as a model for inclusive and community-driven agricultural investment.
Earlier in his welcome address, Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Leye Akinola, described FRILIA as “a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural and land reform agenda.” He explained that the framework ensures that land-based agricultural investments are conducted responsibly, inclusively, and transparently. “The project safeguards community rights, fosters investor confidence, and creates a win-win platform where livelihoods are spread,” he said, citing early engagements with Fujaik International as proof that FRILIA principles can generate jobs, boost revenue, and protect community interests.
Mrs. Foluke Tunde-Daramola, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, while delivering the vote of thanks, noted that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership had redefined land allocation for agriculture in Ondo State. “With this bold step, Ondo State is already attracting investors and positioning itself as a national leader in agricultural transformation,” she remarked.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philip, members of the State Executive Council, and other dignitaries.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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