Obaseki restates commitment to economic diversification, food security

Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki has reaffirmed his government remains committed to economic diversification. He assured the state would continue to initiate and implement policies targeted at boosting the agricultural sector and ensuring food security.The Governor, who spoke to journalists in Benin City, said his administration has, in the last three years and eight months, embarked on programmes and reforms created an enabling environment for agricultural businesses to thrive such that more youths and investors could earn a living and create employment. Obaseki said: “We so much believe that with increased investment in agriculture, we will be able to grow sufficient food to sustain food security in Edo State.“Agriculture is a productive venture, not just to feed ourselves, but its products are basic inputs in our industrialisation process. Cassava, for example, is a major input in starch production and ethanol energy.“If we are thinking of diversifying our economy; if we are thinking of creating jobs; if we are thinking of creating a better life for our people, then we must not ignore agriculture. Countries like Malaysia developed their economy based on products like oil palm and rubber. In the past, we have been highly dependent on crude oil as a basis to earn revenue for the country but oil palm is more valuable than crude oil.”The Governor said the agriculture development projects embarked on by his administration remains his main legacy project amid other legacy projects.