Dr. Debo Akande, the Executive Adviser to the Governor of Oyo State on International Cooperation and Development, and the pioneer Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his visionary, strategic global investment drive to China.
Dr. Debo is a distinguished Agribusiness strategist, specialist and development policy expert whose innovative approach has repositioned Oyo State as a National model in Agricultural modernization as well transformed the state’s Agricultural value chain through landmark projects, it was yet another moment of pride to witness an Ibadan-born technocrat making remarkable strides on the global scene.
Governor Makinde’s recent working visit to China focused on fostering global partnerships and attracting foreign investments aimed at boosting Oyo State’s economy across key sectors such as Agribusiness, Education, Health, Technology, and Environmental Sustainability.
During the visit, Governor Makinde held strategic discussions with several international organizations and investors, including ASPAC Technics (Water and Environment), Chambre Ivoirienne de Commerce et de l’Industrie de Belgique et Union Européenne (CICIBE), Ivens Construction Company NV (Construction and Safe Storage of Liquids), Ecoplast Europe Ltd (Recycling), EU–Nigeria Agribusiness Platform, Festival International du Film de Bruxelles (FIFB), GEOxyz (Drone Technology), MedicCleanAir (Healthcare), Purchasers International S.A., Terya Group BV (Environmental Projects), APT International, and HMD Group (Heavy Machinery and Construction).
Dr. Akande praised the governor for his strategic foresight and determination in strengthening Oyo State’s position as a prime destination for international investment. He noted that the discussions held in China reflected Governor Makinde’s deep commitment to advancing technical and vocational Education, Agribusiness growth, recycling initiatives, and international cultural collaborations that will enhance the state’s global standing.
According to Dr. Akande, the partnership with the EU–Nigeria Agribusiness Platform marks a significant milestone, as it is set to support Oyo State in improving standards, traceability, and export readiness of both primary and processed Agricultural products. He emphasized that this collaboration will also help build capacity for indigenous Agribusiness SMEs and facilitate trade within the European Union market, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic empowerment.
“From the onset, before this administration was formed, I have always believed that Oyo State made the right decision in electing Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde in 2019,” Dr. Akande stated. “His first term, the Omituntun 1.0 era, silenced skeptics through results-driven leadership and inclusive governance. His re-election in 2023, ushering in Omituntun 2.0, is a testament to the people’s confidence in his progressive vision.”
Dr. Akande further expressed optimism that the partnerships initiated in China will accelerate Oyo State’s transition from poverty to prosperity, in alignment with the Governor’s Sustainable Development Goals framework.
“Governor Makinde means business and has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the welfare and economic growth of Oyo State. The Pacesetter State is on the path of global relevance through innovation, investment, and sustainable development,” he concluded.
Dr. Akande stands tall among the brilliant indigenous sons of Ibadan shaping the transformation agenda of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, in Oyo State.
He is Intelligent, visionary, and globally connected, Dr. Akande continues to play a pivotal role in driving Oyo’s Agribusiness development agenda — bridging the gap between local opportunities and international investment.
E-Signed:
Written/Reported By
✍️ Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez
(IJOBA AUTHORITY MOE)
Policy Advocate | Public Affairs Analyst
Convener, Emerging Force Platform
Loyalist of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE
