After touring the 1200-hectare Fashola Farm Estate in Oyo West Local Government area, Governor Makinde expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the project. He stated that the residents of the state would soon witness the economic impact of the estate. The governor urged the people to embrace the agro-business policy of his administration, highlighting the opportunities being created.
During an interaction with journalists, Governor Makinde emphasised his anticipation of the commencement of full-scale operations at the farm estate. He envisioned trucks transporting produce from the farm and emphasized that the time for such activities was near. The governor encouraged residents to take advantage of the positive economic activities happening in the state and align themselves with the agricultural initiatives.
The governor clarified that the project was being implemented through a Private Public Partnership arrangement. He assured that his administration would continue to foster an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Governor Makinde reiterated his stance that the government's primary role is to create conducive conditions for private enterprises to flourish. He highlighted the positive outcomes resulting from this approach.
Governor Makinde also stressed the significance of the farm estate and brown sugarcane processor company in addressing rural-urban migration. He expressed the desire to discourage people from leaving rural areas to seek opportunities in urban centers. The governor observed the development of facilities in the vicinity and expressed his reluctance to leave the area, as it showcased the potential for growth and prosperity.
The ongoing projects at the site encompass the construction of farmhouses, farmers' lodges, a machinery service center, a Fan Milk industry, and a road network, among others. Additionally, the farm hosts young farmers from Oyo State who were trained in Nassarawa State as part of the Youth Entrepreneurship Agricbusiness Program (YEAP) initiated by the Makinde-led administration.
Governor Makinde's visit to the agricultural projects underscores his commitment to the development of the agricultural sector and his efforts to create an enabling environment for private businesses to thrive. The initiatives aim to boost the state's economy, reduce rural-urban migration, and empower the youth through agricultural entrepreneurship.