Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori officially presented a Certificate of Occupancy covering 99.99 hectares to Olam Agri for the construction of an animal‑feed production facility in Ogwashi‑Uku. The hand‑over ceremony highlighted the state’s commitment to attracting genuine investors and expanding its agricultural base.
Key details of the agreement
- The land parcel measures 99.99 hectares and is situated in the town of Ogwashi‑Uku, Delta State.
- Olam Agri intends to use the site to establish a modern animal‑feed plant aimed at reducing the feed deficit in the South‑South and South‑East zones.
- Governor Oborevwori emphasized that peace, due process and community cooperation are essential for sustained investment, stating, “This occasion reflects our commitment to following due process in all our dealings.”
- Olam’s Managing Director Amit Agarwal noted that the South‑South and South‑East regions rely heavily on feed supplies from the South‑West, and the new plant will bring production closer to key markets.
- The Obi of Ogwashi‑Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II, urged the company to ensure that the host community benefits through jobs, internships, skills development and technology transfer.
What does the investment mean for Delta’s economy?
The governor described the land allocation as a pivotal step toward broadening agricultural opportunities in the state. He argued that boosting food‑production capacity can stimulate economic activity, generate employment and improve livelihoods for residents.
Why was Ogwashi‑Uku chosen?
Agarwal explained that Olam Agri already operates feed plants in the South‑West but identified a strategic need to serve the South‑South and South‑East markets more efficiently. Locating the facility in Ogwashi‑Uku will shorten supply chains, lower logistics costs and help close the regional feed‑production gap.
How will the community be involved?
Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II called on Olam Agri to prioritize community inclusion, urging the firm to create employment opportunities, offer internship programmes, and facilitate skills‑training initiatives that will leave a lasting positive impact.
The governor praised traditional institutions and other stakeholders for maintaining the peace and cooperation that made the project possible. He reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to support reputable investors who are willing to contribute to Delta’s agricultural productivity and food‑security goals.
What are the next steps?
Both the state government and Olam Agri have pledged to work closely with the traditional leadership and the host community to ensure the successful implementation of the feed‑plant project, which is expected to bridge the supply gap and bolster the region’s agricultural sector.