The Chinese government and the federal government of Nigeria have established a smart farming industrial estate in Iragbiji, a Boripe local government area in Osun state.
The agro-industrial hub is a pilot project to train youth, create jobs, boost food production, and promote agricultural exports.
Mr. Chang Daniel, the Chairman of China International Business and Development Corporation (CIBDC), speaking during the royal reception at the palace of the Aragbiji of Iragbiji with Oba Rasheed Olabomi Odundun IV present, emphasised that agriculture is crucial to human survival and economic growth.
He said, “With technology and digitalisation, we would replicate Chinese industrial reforms in five years in Nigeria.”
Mr. Daniel pointed out that technology-driven farming systems and innovation made China’s transformation over the past 40 years possible and now, the goal is to bring a similar revolution to Nigeria’s agro-space.
“There’s a saying in China that when a country becomes developed, its people become rich. So, we believe Nigeria will be a great country in future,” he added.
Dr. Chidi Ulelu, President of the Nigeria-China Investment Club, led a 12-member delegation to Iragbiji, accompanied by Bola Ojo, a legislative aide in the Senate.
He explained that beyond the smart farming estate, the host community will benefit from full electricity generation to support the new agro facilities.
Princess Afoma Adigwe, Executive Director of Uplifting Youth Through Agriculture (UYOTA), added that the Pilot Uyota Smart Farming Industrial Estate will adopt a “Live, Learn, and Work” model.
“The estate will train youths in agro-business, including production, processing, packaging, and exportation,” she explained.
Oba Rasheed Olabomi praised the project’s potential, particularly for the newly established Federal University of Agriculture students in the area.
He stressed that the agro-hub would support both education and economic development.
The royal palace hosted a cultural welcome, including oral poetry, drumming, masquerade dancing, and a feast of local delicacies shared with the Chinese delegation. Guests toasted to “a new development in the community.”
Dignitaries at the event included: High Chief Eesa of Iragbiji, Muraina Oyelami, Kingmakers and Chiefs, Iragbiji Development Association (IDA), led by Dr. Lateef Raheem, Ministerial aide, Mr. Kaseem Akolawole, Chief of Staff to Aragbiji, Mr. Olayide Oladiti, Community spokesperson and programme anchor, Dr. Jimoh Olorede.
This smart farming estate offers a positive change for Nigeria’s agriculture and introduces modern farming methods, clean energy, and engages and trains young people in farming and exporting goods.
