Ondo Agricultural City project approved by Governor Aiyedatiwa, creating jobs and boosting agriculture with KONIG Agriculture’s $42m investment.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the establishment of Ondo Agricultural City in Iju-Agbonrin/Ori-Ohin, Ose Local Government, through KONIG Agriculture Ltd, a $42 million initiative aimed at boosting agriculture and local economic development.

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The project, implemented under the Federal Government’s Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-intensive Agriculture initiative, was formalised after the signing of a land-lease contract between community landowners and KONIG Agriculture Ltd, with the state government acting as guarantor.

State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, said the initiative would stimulate agricultural growth, create employment opportunities, and reduce insecurity in the host communities.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa will continue to welcome and partner with reliable investors in the agricultural sector,” he stated, noting that the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry would support both investors and landowners to ensure the project’s success.

Akinola further explained that the Northern Senatorial District would experience an agricultural revolution, with the revival of the moribund Akunnu cattle ranch, previously constructed by the old Western Region, as part of the broader investment strategy.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Foluke Tunde-Daramola, appealed to community leaders to prepare youths and women for employment opportunities, emphasising that the project would help eliminate local joblessness.

KONIG Agriculture Ltd project lead, Oluwasegun Saliu, praised the state government for attracting the investment.

He revealed that over 60 per cent of the workforce would come from the host community, and the company would implement corporate social responsibility initiatives including boreholes, solar power, and a health facility accessible to the public.

Representing the FRILIA initiative, Justina Arogundade highlighted that the project adheres to principles of sustainable, responsible large-scale agriculture.

She said the framework ensures a “win-win” outcome through community consultation, environmental and social sustainability, and fair compensation, benefiting both investors and local communities.

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The Ondo Agricultural City project signals a major push by the state government to position agriculture as a catalyst for economic growth, employment generation, and food security.