The groundbreaking partnership was unveiled at the 43rd Annual General Meeting of Odu’a Investment Company Limited. It forms a crucial part of SWAgCo’s ambitious N10 billion agribusiness joint venture, which is designed to industrialize agriculture and unlock the full economic potential of the South-West region.
Key Initiatives for Farmer Empowerment
A flagship initiative under this new collaboration is a N65 million maize production project located at the Oke-Ako agribusiness hub in Ekiti State. This program, which is already underway, includes a significant N32 million revolving grant. Its primary objective is to support 100 smallholder farmers by providing them with essential resources such as access to credit, high-quality inputs, comprehensive training, and connection to structured markets. The support mechanisms embedded in the project are designed to enhance productivity, foster farmer cooperation, and ultimately increase rural incomes.
Mr. Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of the BATN Foundation, underscored the importance of such strategic alliances. “At the BATN Foundation, we believe that strategic partnerships are critical to achieving sustainable development goals and driving inclusive growth in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Our collaboration with Odu’a’s SWAgCo is a bold step toward industrialising agriculture and uplifting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers who form the backbone of our food systems,” he stated.
Odusanya further expressed enthusiasm for the partnership’s potential, adding, “By combining resources, expertise, and shared vision, this partnership will scale up agricultural productivity, strengthen local value chains, and create long-term economic opportunities for rural communities. We are excited to be part of this transformative journey to build a resilient agricultural future for the region and beyond.”
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony saw the attendance of key dignitaries and stakeholders, highlighting the significance of this collaboration. Notable attendees included Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, and Mrs. Folusho Olaniyan, Group Independent Director. From the BATN Foundation, Halimat Shuaibu, Executive Director, and Mr. Oludare Odusanya, General Manager, were present. Dr. Theo Adewale Onadeko, CEO of SWAgCo, also attended, alongside representatives from state governments across the South-West region and various agricultural stakeholders.
This strategic partnership aligns perfectly with the BATN Foundation’s core mission: empowering smallholder farmers, enhancing food security, and promoting inclusive agricultural development across Nigeria. As more collaborative investments take shape under the broader SWAgCo initiative, the BATN Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing efforts and forging partnerships that strengthen the rural agricultural system and, most importantly, empower the smallholder farmers who are vital to the nation's food production.