By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
FOOD SECURITY and job creation are set for a boost in Ogun State as the government moves to establish a modern agricultural hub in partnership with SEMMARIS, a French company renowned for operating Rungis Farmers’ Market, the world’s largest wholesale food market.
Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the initiative, citing its potential to enhance food sufficiency, ensure safety standards, and drive employment across the state.
During a meeting at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun welcomed Sonia Darraco, Regional Agriculture Counsellor at the French Embassy, and Timothee Witkowski, Head of International Projects at SEMMARIS, alongside his team.
He emphasised that the collaboration would not only transform Ogun’s agricultural sector but also reinforce President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to France, which sought to deepen bilateral partnerships in key economic sectors.
Ogun State’s strategic location, linking Nigeria’s financial capital to other parts of the country, positions it as a prime hub for agricultural investment.
The governor highlighted the state’s dominance in food production, noting its status as Nigeria’s top producer of cassava, eggs, and rice in the southwest.
Additionally, he pointed to the state’s extensive arable land and rich limestone deposits, which contribute to its leading position in non-oil revenue.
Abiodun urged SEMMARIS to capitalise on these advantages, stressing that Ogun’s gas reticulation network and favourable business climate continue to attract industries.
The French delegation expressed keen interest, with Darraco affirming Rungis Market’s readiness to invest in Nigeria, describing Ogun as a promising starting point.
Witkowski reaffirmed SEMMARIS’ commitment to supporting the state’s vision, stating, “We see your strong ambition for Ogun and want to be a strategic partner.
“We have many ideas and technical proposals to advance this collaboration, and we are eager to contribute as both technical and strategic partners.”
