The Ogun State Government (OSG) has commended Dangote Industries for constructing and handing over a modern garri and fufu processing facility in Kajola, Ewekoro Local Government Area, describing the project as a significant investment that will strengthen the cassava value chain, improve food security, generate employment, and enhance the livelihoods of farming communities.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Honorable Bolu Owotomo, said the facility marks an important milestone in the state’s drive toward agricultural industrialization and value addition. According to him, the processing centre will help reduce post-harvest losses, improve the quality of cassava products, expand market opportunities for farmers, and increase the competitiveness of locally produced food items.

Owotomo said the initiative reflects the Dangote Group’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth, noting that it aligns with the Ogun State Government’s vision of transforming agriculture into a modern, profitable, and market-driven sector.

He added that the project is expected to stimulate job creation, wealth generation, rural industrialisation, and broader economic prosperity while reinforcing agriculture’s position as a major contributor to the state’s economy.

“Agriculture remains central to the economic agenda of Governor Dapo Abiodun. Through strategic programmes and targeted investments, we are repositioning the sector to become more productive, mechanised, technology-driven, and attractive to investors,” he said.

The commissioner further explained that the state government has continued to connect farmers with dependable off-takers to guarantee market access and improve profitability. He described the Dangote processing facility as a timely and strategic intervention that will bridge key processing gaps within the cassava value chain, increase value addition, and unlock greater economic opportunities for rural communities.

Owotomo also assured Dangote Cement Plc of the government’s continued support, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening agricultural value chains across cassava, maize, aquaculture, cocoa, and cotton.

Expressing confidence in stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, he said partnerships with organisations such as Dangote Cement Plc would accelerate agricultural transformation, expand food production, and improve rural livelihoods throughout Ogun State.

Earlier, the Plant Director of Dangote Cement, Ibese, Mr. Ayyagari Subbaraidu, described the project as a strategic social investment and a landmark achievement in the company’s efforts to promote sustainable economic development across its host communities.

He explained that the garri processing section is fitted with a five-tonne-per-day peeling machine, two 30-tonne hydraulic presses, two mild steel frying pans, and two stainless steel sieves. According to him, the equipment is designed to improve operational efficiency, increase productivity, and reduce the physical burden associated with traditional processing methods.

Subbaraidu added that the fufu processing section consists of eight concrete-tiled fermentation basins supported by an adequate water supply system to ensure hygienic and efficient operations.

He noted that the processing facility demonstrates Dangote Cement’s commitment to empowering local communities, supporting agribusiness development, and creating sustainable economic opportunities for rural households.