The Edo State Government has partnered with the Initiatief Duurzame Handel (IDH), an international organization, to initiate a Multi-Stakeholders Platform (MSP) aimed at ensuring that the state regains its leading position in oil palm production in Africa.

Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Communication and Orientation, Mr. Joses Isede disclosed this to journalists in Benin City when he received the MSP facilitator from IDH, Mrs. Ngozi Unuigbe, who was on a courtesy visit.

Isede said Edo is leveraging on the investment-friendly environment provided by Governor Godwin Obaseki-led’s administration to drive agricultural development in the state.

The Permanent Secretary expressed satisfaction with the import of the collaboration which he added was in tune with the state government’s Making Edo Great Again (MEGA) Agenda.

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Noting that the old Bendel State, by implication Edo State occupied a prime position in oil palm production globally in the past, Isede said that the government is always ready to collaborate with international bodies that are willing to key into ongoing agricultural programmes in the state.

He assured that the ministry would do its part through intensive orientation and education on the project.

On her part, Unuigbe said IDH was supporting Edo State to improve oil palm production by smallholder farmers, adding, “Not just improvement, but in a sustainable way that is environmentally friendly.”