By Simeon Shodimu
As Nigeria grapples with rising youth unemployment, insecurity, and food shortages, the call for innovative, homegrown solutions is growing louder. Traditional institutions are increasingly lending their voices to policy conversations, advocating practical models that combine economic development with social stability.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on the Federal Government to replicate the Agbeyewa Farms model in Ekiti State, proposing the conversion of vast forest lands into productive agricultural hubs as a means of tackling unemployment, insecurity, and food scarcity.
The monarch noted that the establishment of Agbeyewa Farms across parts of Ekiti North Senatorial District—once plagued by kidnapping and banditry—has led to a noticeable decline in criminal activities, making it a viable template for nationwide adoption.
Speaking at Ikogosi Ekiti during the 3rd Annual Traditional Rulers’ Retreat themed “Driving Economic Transformation through Sustainable Agricultural Development,” Ogunwusi highlighted how communities such as Ipao, Gede, and Iyemero Ekiti, previously considered high-risk due to their proximity to neighbouring states, have witnessed improved security following large-scale agricultural investments.
He commended the Chairman of Cavista Holdings, Niyi Olajide, for spearheading the initiative, noting that Agbeyewa Farms has grown into one of the largest cassava farms globally while creating employment opportunities and boosting food production.
According to the monarch, the project demonstrates how strategic investments in agriculture can displace criminal elements. He stressed that if similar capacity-building initiatives are implemented nationwide, incidents of banditry and insecurity could be significantly reduced.
Ogunwusi also praised traditional rulers and the Ekiti State Government for fostering an enabling environment that has allowed such investments to thrive. He urged monarchs across the country to attract development initiatives to their domains, emphasizing the importance of adding value to land resources to drive economic growth and youth empowerment.
“If land is not productively utilised, economic development and youth emancipation will remain elusive. We need more industries to emerge from our local resources,” he said.
In his remarks, Olajide reiterated that Cavista Holdings’ investments are focused on job creation, food production, and broader economic transformation. He disclosed that Agbeyewa Farms currently employs thousands of people in Ekiti State, contributing to local livelihoods and stability.
He stressed that Nigeria’s path to industrialisation depends on the development of a robust, mechanised agricultural system, noting that the company’s investments are designed to create value and transform lives.
Olajide further revealed that the acquisition of Matna Food Limited in Akure in January 2026 was aimed at expanding cassava processing capacity, strengthening the agricultural value chain, and improving market access for farmers.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu-Alagbado, praised the initiative, noting that Agbeyewa Farms’ offtake arrangements have encouraged increased cassava cultivation in the region.
Similarly, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Chief of Staff, lauded the investment, stating that it has boosted job creation, internally generated revenue, and the state’s overall economic output.
The development underscores the growing recognition of agriculture as a critical driver of economic growth, security, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
