Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, played host to his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as both leaders met to strengthen inter-state collaboration in key sectors including agriculture, security, and economic development.
The closed-door meeting, held at the Government House in Ibadan, marks a continued effort by the two South-West states to explore areas of mutual benefit and deepen their long-standing historical and cultural ties.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the meeting, Governor Abiodun emphasized the shared vision between the two states and highlighted the significance of the meeting in fostering regional development.
“Ogun State proudly acknowledges its historical roots in the Old Western Region, with Ibadan as its capital,” he said. “Our visit today reaffirms the strong cultural, historical, and economic ties that bind Ogun and Oyo states.”
Governor Abiodun noted that both states have continued to attract major investments, especially in agriculture and agro-processing, and emphasized the urgent need for joint strategies to achieve food security and economic resilience.
“At a time when the call for food sovereignty is louder than ever, this meeting was essential,” he stated. “We discussed how to collaborate effectively to ensure we grow what we eat and eat what we grow, thereby turning our region into Nigeria’s breadbasket.”
He acknowledged Oyo State’s agricultural strides in areas like Fasola, as well as Ogun’s ongoing work in Odeda, Imeko, and Iwoye—border regions that directly connect both states.
On security, the Ogun governor reaffirmed the critical role of regional cooperation, particularly the impact of the Amotekun Corps in addressing security challenges.
“Security was a top priority in our discussion,” he added. “As you know, sustainable economic growth is impossible without adequate security. The Amotekun initiative, which we both support, has proven vital in intelligence gathering and enhancing the safety of our communities.”
Governor Makinde had earlier paid a similar visit to Ogun State, during which both leaders agreed to implement peer review mechanisms and leverage each other’s strengths for regional development.
The visit marks another milestone in the growing partnership between the two states, with both governors pledging continued collaboration for the overall benefit of their citizens and the South-West region at large.
