8th of May, 2026 marks another significant step in the future of agricultural development for Osun East Senatorial District as I attended the Federation of Cocoa Commerce Conference Dinner Night in Grosvenor House, London, United Kingdom. The gathering provided an important platform for consultations, engagements, and strategic discussions on the future of cocoa production, processing, value addition, and global market opportunities.
As a region richly blessed with cocoa, and other valuable cash crops, the Ife Ijesha zone holds enormous agricultural and economic potential. My discussions at the conference focused on practical ways to improve cocoa utilization, strengthen refining and processing systems, and position Osun East as a leading force in agricultural exports and agribusiness development. The future of agriculture is no longer limited to cultivation alone, it lies in value chains, innovation, industrial processing, and global competitiveness.
This engagement also reflects the experience and capacity I have built over the years in the agricultural sector. As Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security in Osun State, we introduced reforms and initiatives that strengthened food systems, empowered farmers, and improved agricultural productivity across the state. Likewise, during my tenure as President of the African Cashew Alliance, I played a significant role in improving the image and global competitiveness of Nigerian cashew and other cash crops within the international market.
These experiences continue to shape my vision for Osun East Senatorial District. I strongly believe that agriculture remains one of the greatest tools for economic growth, youth empowerment, job creation, and regional development. With the right representation, strategic partnerships, and supportive policies at the federal level, Osun East can become a major hub for agro industrial development in Nigeria.
My aspiration is beyond politics, it is about building opportunities, attracting investments, and creating sustainable prosperity for our people. The journey towards a stronger and economically vibrant Osun East continues, and agriculture will remain at the center of that transformation. In rounding up ,I am expressing my huge appreciation to my amiable Executive Governor, His Excellency Senator Dr Asiwaju Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke for the immense opportunity granted me to serve the good people of Osun State within the agricultural space.
