Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to forging strategic partnerships with the United States in key sectors such as solid minerals development, agribusiness, education, and energy.
The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, made this known during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, led by Kenise Hill, Deputy Chief of the Political and Economic Section, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan.
Governor Makinde highlighted Oyo State’s untapped potential, particularly in solid minerals, noting that nearly half of the state’s landmass contains valuable mineral deposits. He emphasized that the newly established Solid Minerals Development Agency is positioned to facilitate investments and collaboration in the sector.
“We welcome partnerships that can harness these resources. Whether your engagement is with the private sector or directly with the government, our agency will provide accurate data and support,” he said.
On agribusiness, the governor stressed the state’s focus on food security and agricultural development, inviting the U.S. to explore institutions like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). He also referenced the recent visit of Sierra Leone’s President to understudy Oyo’s agribusiness model as a testament to its growing influence.
Education remains a top priority, with over 21% of the state’s annual budget allocated to the sector. “We are committed to expanding both conventional and tech-driven education to prepare our citizens for a global future,” Lawal noted.
In the energy sector, the governor pointed to ongoing efforts to achieve power sufficiency, including the construction of an 11KVA Hybrid Power Plant. He invited U.S. support in bolstering the state’s energy infrastructure, which he identified as critical for industrial growth.
Responding, Ms. Hill commended the state’s initiatives and confirmed the U.S. government’s interest in supporting infrastructure development and trade. She highlighted opportunities for U.S. companies to collaborate with local entities and disclosed the availability of grants—typically around $2 million—to support such projects.
“We aim to bridge U.S. industries with Nigerian partners and explore new opportunities in key sectors like solid minerals and infrastructure,” she said.
Other delegation members, including Mr. Josh Egba, Mr. Banksharon Nwaneri, and Mr. Kenechukwu Onyeke, expressed readiness to explore initiatives that promote development in Oyo State.
The meeting was attended by senior state officials, including Secretary to the State Government Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Head of Service Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, and Commissioners for Investment and Environment, among others.
