Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday played host to his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as both leaders explored avenues for deeper collaboration between their states in key sectors such as agriculture, security, and economic development.
The two governors held a closed-door meeting at the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan. Speaking with journalists afterward, Governor Abiodun described the meeting as a continuation of ongoing efforts to harness the historical and strategic bonds between the two neighbouring states.
Abiodun noted that the meeting built on previous engagements, including Governor Makinde’s recent visit to Ogun State, where both leaders agreed to initiate a peer review process to leverage each other’s strengths for regional development.
“Ogun State evolved from the old Western Region where Ibadan was the capital. So, we share strong historical, cultural, and economic ties with Oyo State,” Abiodun said.
He explained that discussions focused largely on boosting food security through collaboration in agriculture, especially in border communities such as Odeda, Imeko, and Iwoye in Ogun, and Fasola in Oyo.
“We are both investing in agriculture and have recognised the need to work together to achieve food sovereignty. Our vision is to ensure that we grow what we eat and eat what we grow, thereby turning this region into Nigeria’s breadbasket,” he stated.
On security, the Ogun State governor emphasized the importance of synergy among neighbouring states to maintain peace and drive economic growth.
“Security remains a cornerstone for development. We discussed the role of Amotekun and other intelligence-sharing efforts that have helped fortify the security architecture in the region,” he added.
While full details of the meeting were not disclosed, Governor Abiodun noted that Governor Makinde would provide further updates at the appropriate time.
