By Abdullahi Lukman
Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the private sector to collaborate with government policies in reshaping the country’s economic landscape.
He was speaking during the commissioning of Springfield Agro Limited’s crop protection chemical plant, located along the Sagamu-Ibadan Expressway in Ewu-Osi, Ogun State, Wednesday, January 29.
Represented by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, Shettima emphasized the critical role the private sector must play in driving industrial growth across agricultural value chains to secure the nation’s food supply.
He pointed out the untapped potential in Africa’s vast arable land, noting that despite this, the continent’s share of global manufacturing is less than two percent.
Shettima stressed the imperative for Nigeria to lead the charge in reversing this trend by creating an enabling environment for local businesses to thrive, innovate, and compete globally.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to removing barriers and providing the necessary support for businesses, particularly in agriculture, which remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako Oyedele, commended Springfield Agro for its contributions to the agricultural sector, highlighting the company’s efforts in offering comprehensive farm solutions, including seeds, fertilizers, and tractors.
Abiodun also praised the company’s decision to expand into manufacturing, underscoring the importance of agriculture in Ogun State’s economic strategy.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment with the infrastructure, policies, and incentives needed to encourage investment and promote economic growth.
In his welcome address, Chairman of Kewalram Chanrai Group, NG Chanrai, shared that Springfield Agro’s success in Nigeria has paved the way for the company’s expansion into other countries.
He reiterated the company’s dedication to producing high-quality products in line with federal government agricultural policies and supporting local manufacturers by sourcing all materials domestically.
Chanrai also highlighted that the company has created over 4,000 jobs in Ogun State as part of its commitment to contributing to local economic development.