The Oyo State Government, through the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), has engaged design and build contractor and host communities of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) project at Atan/Ijaiye village Akinyele Local Government Area, in a stakeholder dialogue that culminated in the signing of a Social Contract Agreement.
Speaking on behalf of the Director-General of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande, Mr Ajetunmobi Akinwumi stressed the importance of mutual trust, cooperation and peaceful coexistence between the government, host communities, farmers and contractors throughout the project cycle.
He assured the communities of inclusive participation, noting that 60 per cent of skilled and unskilled workers would be sourced locally, while 40 per cent employment opportunities would prioritise youths and women. He also emphasised the importance of security and sustained engagement with the communities as construction progresses.
The Baale of Atan Village and its environs, Chief Olanlokun Kayode, welcomed the government delegation and appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for bringing the development to the community. He urged the government to fulfil its commitments and appealed to contractors to engage qualified members of the host communities.
Similarly, the chairman Araromi Ajobo, Baale Adeyemo Adeoye, acknowledged the development potential of the project and commended the government for its transparency and engagement with the communities, urging that the interests of the people remain central.
Representing Craneburg Construction, Mr. Jerry appreciated the traditional rulers, community leaders and farmers for their hospitality and cooperation, assuring stakeholders that the company would work collaboratively with all parties.
Farmers and community representatives, including Taiwo Soliu Adeyemo, Abdullahi Arulogun, Comrade Atilola Yakub, Falade Muyiwa, Engr. Olalekan Ogunlola and others, raised issues bordering on transparency, alternative-route repairs, road design and setbacks, workers’ identification and site security.
The women representative, Fatimo Oloyede, delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the farmers and communities.
The engagement reinforced the commitment of stakeholders to ensuring that the SAPZ project delivers sustainable economic opportunities while maintaining peaceful and mutually beneficial relationships with host communities.
Written/Reported ✍️ by
Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez (IJOBA AUTHORITY MOE)
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