Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has launched a new initiative aimed at enhancing food security and ensuring equitable benefits for communities involved in agricultural investments.
On Wednesday, the governor inaugurated a steering committee for the Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agricultural Investment (FRILIA).
This committee, chaired by the governor himself, is tasked with overseeing projects that balance the interests of investors with the rights and welfare of local communities.
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Speaking at the inauguration, Aiyedatiwa emphasised that FRILIA is designed to ensure that host communities receive fair compensation for their land used in farming projects.
The initiative aligns with the national food security goals outlined in President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The governor highlighted that this framework was developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, the World Bank, and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).
The state has already secured a significant parcel of land—26,000 hectares in the Ori Ohin area of Ose Local Government Area—for a pilot project.
According to the governor, stakeholders, including landowners and tenants, have already been engaged to ensure a smooth start to the scheme.
He also noted that efforts are underway to acquire more land for future projects.
To support the new agricultural ventures, the Ondo State government has allocated N7.5 billion to the agricultural sector.
The governor stated that this funding is intended to foster the growth and development of the entire agricultural value chain within the state.
The committee’s responsibilities include supervising and monitoring the implementation and finances of FRILIA projects, as well as conducting post-project evaluations.
Aiyedatiwa expressed confidence that the framework would serve as a model for transparent, community-focused agricultural investment.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, referred to FRILIA as a “cornerstone” of the state’s agricultural reform strategy.
He explained that the framework aims to provide a reliable platform that protects community rights while building investor confidence.
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Akinola mentioned that credible investors, such as Fujaik International, have already expressed interest in partnering with the state.
Foluke Tunde-Daramola, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, praised Aiyedatiwa for his leadership, stating that his approach to land allocation for farming is attracting investors and positioning the state as a leader in responsible land governance in Nigeria.
