Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared that Osun State will align with the Federal Government's National Halal Economic Strategy by developing a state-specific policy framework and implementation plan to maximize opportunities within the emerging sector.
Governor Adeleke made the commitment on Thursday during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja, where he commended the Federal Government's initiative aimed at positioning Nigeria to benefit from the rapidly expanding global halal economy.
Describing the initiative as a strategic and timely intervention, the governor said the halal economy presents significant opportunities for economic diversification, investment attraction, and job creation.
“The National Halal Economic Strategy is a timely step to tap into the multi-trillion-dollar halal economy that is already integrated into Western and global markets,” Adeleke stated.
He called for the development of a clear implementation template for states, noting that subnational governments require a practical framework to effectively domesticate and implement the national strategy.
According to him, the Osun State Government will establish a Halal Economy Committee to adapt the federal template and formulate a comprehensive state implementation programme.
The governor stressed that the halal economy extends beyond religious considerations, encompassing sectors such as finance, food production, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, and ethical business practices.
“I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this initiative. Osun will work on an implementation plan to ensure that all residents and indigenes benefit from the opportunities embedded in the halal economy,” Adeleke said.
He added that the strategy has the potential to expand and deepen Osun's economic base, creating opportunities for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs across various sectors.
The governor further emphasized that the halal economy is inclusive and accessible to people of different faiths, noting that its principles are rooted in quality assurance, ethical standards, and sustainable business practices.
The Federal Government recently unveiled the National Halal Economic Strategy through Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described the initiative as a key component of the Tinubu administration's economic diversification agenda.
According to the Vice President, the strategy is designed to boost non-oil exports, attract foreign direct investment, and create sustainable employment opportunities across the country.
Shettima explained that the framework was developed through collaboration with the Halal Products Development Company, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, as well as Dar Al Halal Group Nigeria. The initiative also received technical support from international institutions, including the Islamic Development Bank and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa.
Analysts say Nigeria's entry into the global halal market could unlock substantial economic opportunities, given the growing demand for halal-certified products and services worldwide.
With Osun now indicating its readiness to participate in the initiative, stakeholders expect discussions to commence on how the state can leverage its agricultural, commercial, and human resources to benefit from the emerging economic framework.
