The Oyo State Government has received a delegation from the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU) of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), to discuss the forthcoming Agri-Food Market Development Project.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, while receiving the delegation, led by National Agro-Logistics Specialist, Engr. Salisu Abubarka, assured the team of the state’s readiness for the project.
He said that the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration has laid the foundation for agricultural growth through strategic road infrastructure and rural development.
The Commissioner further appreciated Engr. Abubarka’s effort to include an additional market in the ongoing remodeling of three major agro-markets under RAAMP in the state.
Earlier, the National Agro-Logistics Specialist, Engr. Salisu Abubarka, hinted that the purpose of their visit was to assess the state’s readiness for the project and also to encourage the formal expression of interest for the new initiative.
According to Engr. Abubarka, the project—funded by the African Development Agency (AFD) in partnership with the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is designed to reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access for farmers, and strengthen food security in participating states.
Present at the meeting were the Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Hon. Williams Akin Funmilayo; Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Agri-Business Development Agency, OYSADA, Dr. Kola Badmus; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Tunde Ayanleke and the State Project Coordinator, Oyo RAAMP, Engr. Mrs. Adeola Ekundayo among others.