Students in Ogun State have commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for attracting a multi-million dollar investment from a Qatari-based agricultural and food company.
This, the students, described as a transformative move for the state’s economy and youth employment.
This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, by the National President, National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), Kehinde Thomas.
Thomas praised the administration’s success in securing the interest of the international company, which specialises in livestock and dairy production.
He noted that the company recently confirmed its plans to establish a production plant in Ogun State.
described the development as a “huge leap” in Governor Abiodun’s investment drive, positioning Ogun as Nigeria’s preferred destination for investors.
“When operational, the company will not only boost the state’s revenue but also create hundreds of jobs for our youths and graduates,” Thomas said. “It will also improve locally processed dairy products, making milk and other protein-rich foods more available to people in Ogun and beyond.”
Thomas noted that the investment will strengthen the state’s GDP while bringing expertise, technology, and capital that can drive broader economic development.
He also lauded Gov. Abiodun’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly the nearly completed Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport, which he said would further enhance Ogun’s appeal to international investors.
The NAOSS President expressed optimism that the new dairy facility would help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported dairy products.
He pointed out that in spite having one of Africa’s largest cattle populations, Nigeria still spends between $1.3 billion and $1.5 billion annually on dairy imports, meeting only about 50 per cent of its needs.
“With this company coming to Ogun, we expect to see a major contribution towards self-sufficiency in dairy production and improved food security,” Thomas said.
He added that the investment was expected to create significant economic opportunities, help address Nigeria’s dairy deficit, and strengthen Ogun State’s reputation as a hub for agribusiness and manufacturing in the country.
The Head of Products and Solutions Architecture of Qatar’s largest locally-owned food and dairy producer, Mr Aidan Thomas Iynan, disclosed the company’s intention during a courtesy visit to Governor Abiodun.
The delegation was led by Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).
