Johnvents Group has announced the opening of ten new processing facilities in Ondo State, designed to create a direct connection between local farmers and processing facilities.
Mr. John Alamu, the Founder and Group Managing Director of Johnvents, stated that private sector investments are playing a crucial role in adding value within Ondo State's agricultural sector. The initiative positions the state as a vital component of Johnvents' global value chain through extensive manufacturing and processing operations.
During the celebrations for Ondo's 50th anniversary, Alamu outlined the firm’s goal to diminish the long-standing reliance on the export of raw agricultural commodities like cocoa. He emphasized the importance of processing agricultural products nearer to production sites, allowing them to be transformed into higher-value goods for both domestic and international markets.
Alamu pointed out that Ondo State is among Nigeria's foremost cocoa-producing areas, where agriculture has historically supported rural communities. However, a significant portion of cocoa has been exported in its raw state, curtailing the state's involvement in the lucrative global chocolate market, which is valued at over $130 billion.
To bridge this gap, Johnvents has tailored its operations in Ondo to foster integrated value-chain development. Specifically, Alamu revealed that the company has set up ten factories throughout the state, ensuring farmers have direct access to these manufacturing facilities.
“Ondo State has been cultivating cocoa and other crops for many years. Our priority is to process these commodities within the state, generate employment, and develop products that can compete on a global stage,” Alamu explained.
He further clarified that the company’s approach integrates agriculture with manufacturing, thereby fostering industrial activity and securing Johnvents' position as one of Ondo's primary employers.
According to Alamu, adding value to agricultural products extends beyond just infrastructure; it also encompasses the development of human capital.
“It is fundamentally about people—farmers, technicians, engineers, and young professionals—who collectively lay the groundwork for a sustainable industrial economy. With appropriate policies and infrastructure, Ondo State can deepen its efforts in value addition while reinforcing its position in regional and global markets,” he added.
In addition to cocoa, Johnvents is involved in processing various commodities such as cashew, sesame, legumes, almonds, pistachios, rice, edible oil, animal feed, and consumer goods.
The organization operates across multiple countries, extending its reach beyond Nigeria into various parts of Africa and global markets, thereby positioning Ondo State at the core of its international value chain, as stated by Alamu.
Johnvents also expressed commendations to the citizens and government of Ondo State for reaching this significant milestone, praising Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his first year of leadership.
“Celebrating Ondo at 50 is a moment of honor for all its people. We congratulate the government and residents of Ondo State on this Golden Jubilee and commend Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his leadership as the state continues to bolster its economic and industrial foundations,” concluded Alamu.
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