The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, has commissioned the new British International Investment (BII) funded Valency agro-processing complex in Ibadan.
Speaking at the commissioning, Baxter said the complex when completed, will strengthen partnerships with local farmers and processing centres to maximise output, provide more stable supply of premium-quality products and reach at least 60,000 farmers in Nigeria to create up to 2,800 jobs among low-income communities.
Baxter said: “The UK’s sustainable agriculture work in Nigeria aims to catalyse an agriculture and food systems transformation that delivers benefits for people, climate, and nature.
“I am delighted to see this new UK investment come to fruition to help enhance value addition in Nigeria’s food processing and export capabilities, creating jobs and improving livelihood opportunities across the nation.
“We look forward to continuing to support Nigeria’s agriculture sector and the opportunities this provides for its economic growth and its population.”
Baxter also used the opportunity to meet with Governor Seyi Makinde of the state and other members of the State House of Assembly.
At the meeting with the Governor, Baxter said his visit is to help deepen and further the longstanding partnership and friendship between the two great nations and with Oyo State.
Baxter reiterated the UK’s commitment to improving trade and economic development opportunities in agribusiness in the state and discussed how both parties can work together to create jobs and build a more prosperous relationship between the UK and Oyo State.
He said: “Visiting Oyo state is a great opportunity to engage and interact with key stakeholders, to learn and gain insights about some of our UK-funded programmes and the impact they have made so far, and the challenges and opportunities identified.
“We very much want to continue our partnerships and support the efforts of the people of Oyo state to enhance economic prosperity and share expertise were useful.
“I believe our partnership, at all levels, will continue to grow and I look forward to playing my part.”
Baxter also met with key stakeholders in the state government, as well as business contacts, and traditional leaders to hear the impact of their projects and initiatives to the lives of people in the state.
Through these meetings, the deputy high commissioner will explore additional investment and trade partnerships, with a potential to boost the state’s economic growth and to create more jobs.
