The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing oil palm production as a critical tool for improving livelihoods and driving economic transformation in the state.
This was emphasized by the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Forster Ihejiofor, during a meeting with a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment; Ministry of Finance; and the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPAN) at his office.
Dr. Ihejiofor underscored the importance of collaboration in maximizing the benefits of the oil palm value chain to create jobs and spur economic growth.
“Our Governor understands the significance of oil palm, not only economically but also as a tool for food security and poverty eradication. Over the past three years, we have supported smallholder farmers to strengthen their businesses and establish a raw material base for value chain activities. We are optimistic that next year will mark the beginning of tangible results from these interventions,” he stated.
He added that the government expects the emergence of aggregators and primary processors and called on NPAN to align their activities to create sustainable businesses within the oil palm sector.
The Commissioner expressed optimism that partnerships with stakeholders would expand opportunities in the oil palm value chain, noting that embracing the oil palm economy could significantly enhance livelihoods and serve as a major income source for Nigeria’s economic development.
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, urged the federal delegation to prioritize publicizing available incentives and support services to enable stakeholders to participate fully. She also called for the strengthening of the Bank of Industry (BOI) to enhance its capacity to support agricultural initiatives, citing the commendable efforts of the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA) in providing credit facilities for agriculture.
Mr. Akeju Olutayo Kehinde, representing the Industrial Development Department of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, noted that their visit aimed to gather data to enable the government to assist oil palm producers effectively. He listed federal incentives for NPAN, such as the Backward Integration Program Certificate, Import Duty Exemption Certificate, Industrial Cluster Construction Support, Pioneer Status, and Capital Allowance.
“The federal government is committed to repositioning the oil palm sector for optimal production and helping NPAN expand their businesses,” Mr. Kehinde said.
Silas Haruna Versila from the Federal Ministry of Finance highlighted additional government initiatives, including non-interest loans through the Bank of Industry, zero-duty importation of oil palm machinery, and financial policies designed to support producers.
Mr. Arthur Onweluzo, spokesman for the Anambra State chapter of NPAN, expressed appreciation for the federal delegation’s visit and reaffirmed the association’s readiness to collaborate with the government in promoting oil palm production across the country.
The meeting concluded with stakeholders emphasizing the need for synergy to harness the full potential of the oil palm sector for sustainable economic development.
