By Salawu Nneka Patience.
Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Timothy Ojomah, says oil palm sector holds immense potential for boosting the state’s agricultural economy.
Ojomah made this known in Lokoja on Wednesday during the submission of the report of the state inter-ministerial committee on Oil Palm Traceability System.
He noted that the traceability system would serve as a foundation for future growth, investment, and export development.
He expressed appreciation for the dedication of all committee members and stakeholders involved in the study.
Comrade Rajan Suleiman, a civil society consultant to Solidaridad and member of the inter-ministerial committee present the committee report to Hon. Ojomah.
He provided an in-depth overview of the committee’s findings, recommendations, and proposed strategies for implementing an effective oil palm traceability system.
Comrade Suleiman further announced that the state inter-ministerial committee has proposed the establishment of two hundred and five (205) hectares of oil palm plantation in Kogi state.
The report emphasized transparency, farmer engagement, and technological solutions to track production from farm to market.
The program was attended by key stakeholders from government ministries, regulatory agencies, and industry partners.
Mr. Kunle Agbana, Director of Agricultural Services at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among government agencies, private sector actors, and civil society organizations in achieving sustainable practices in the oil palm industry.
He stated that the traceability initiative would enhance productivity, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with both national and international standards.
Mr. Moses Dare, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen agricultural value chains.
Haruna Mohammed Jibo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management, highlighted the environmental benefits of traceable and sustainable palm oil production.
Mr Edwin Ignatius, the Area Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, underscored the importance of traceability in facilitating smooth logistics and compliance with export standards.
Hajia Sarat J. Abubakar of the Standards Organization of Nigeria, emphasized the role of quality assurance and adherence to industry benchmarks.
Mr. Akinlabi A., State Coordinator of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, spoke on how the traceability system would enhance market access and export opportunities for Kogi State palm oil producers.
Elder Samson Apeh, the Secretary of the Committee, who thanked all participants for their contributions and reiterated the committee’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the report’s recommendations.
He called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that Kogi State becomes a model for traceable and sustainable palm oil production in Nigeria.
