During a significant meeting in Calabar, Cross River Governor Senator Bassey Otu emphasised the state’s dedication to enhancing its agricultural partnership with Malaysia, especially in the oil palm sector. 

This declaration was made to the Malaysian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Aiyub Bin Omar, at the Governor’s Office. The core of their conversation involved broadening trade, investment, and technical collaborations to boost Nigeria’s palm oil output and refining abilities.

Governor Otu highlighted Malaysia’s global success in palm oil production, which originated from Nigerian seedlings, and stressed Cross River’s readiness to leverage this partnership. “Malaysia has done exceptionally well transforming palm oil into an economic powerhouse. Now, with the global shift towards green energy, palm oil remains a key resource,” he said.

The Governor disclosed that the state had allocated an additional 8,000 hectares to Wilmar International, a major agribusiness firm, and is pushing for local processing by establishing a plant in Cross River. He also revealed plans for a dedicated research centre to advance palm cultivation and sustainability.

“We are developing our port infrastructure to facilitate exports and welcome more Malaysian investments. Let’s build something transformative for both nations,” Otu stated.

High Commissioner Aiyub Bin Omar commended Cross River’s rich biodiversity and Malaysia’s longstanding agricultural presence in the state. “AgriNexus, a Malaysian firm, has operated here since 2017, managing JB Farms, which employs over 1,000 locals,” he noted.

Omar added that Malaysia, the world’s second-largest palm oil producer, has supported Nigeria through training programs and scholarships in agriculture and economic development. Nigeria’s fourth-largest and largest indigenous palm oil estate, contributing ₦200 million annually in taxes to Cross River.

Source: Tribune Online

Image Credit: Calabar Gist