Policy continuity key to Africa’s food security, Obasanjo urges at Okun Rice Mill launch in Abeokuta

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on African governments to prioritize policy continuity to combat food insecurity and drive sustainable development across sectors, especially in agriculture.

Speaking at the inauguration of Okun Rice Mills in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo emphasized that policy inconsistencies have long stymied agricultural growth and broader economic stability on the continent.

According to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo remarked, “The hunger crisis, both in Nigeria and across Africa, would not have reached this critical stage if there had been a culture of policy continuity in developmental and food production efforts.”

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He underscored that frequent policy changes create disruption at all levels—family, state, national, and continental. “You often hear ‘for the first time ever’ as if Nigeria is just starting,” he noted.

“In many cases, initiatives were previously attempted, but without sustained support, the results faded. This lack of continuity is particularly damaging in food production, where past successes could have made a significant impact today.”

Obasanjo stressed that while the government has a limited role in direct production, its primary responsibility lies in creating an enabling environment for businesses, particularly in agriculture.

“Governments must foster continuity in supportive policies if we aim to boost food production and achieve food security at all levels,” he stated.

Obasanjo also lauded Dr. Biodun Onalaja, the CEO of Hyst Global Business Limited, for his commitment to Nigerian agriculture through the establishment of Okun Rice Mills. He praised Onalaja’s investment as an example of perseverance in advancing local rice production and food sufficiency, urging him to continue sourcing rice from local farmers.

Dr. Onalaja, in his address, acknowledged Obasanjo’s influence on his journey in agribusiness. The Okun Rice Mill, capable of producing 100 metric tonnes of high-quality rice daily, is set to become a significant player in Nigeria’s rice production industry.

Onalaja announced that Okun Rice products will be available by mid-November and encouraged local rice farmers to bring their paddy rice for processing, further bolstering local agriculture and employment.

The event also saw Ogun State’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, represented by Alhaji Suraj Ishola, who highlighted the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model driving the venture.

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Owotomo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to creating an enabling environment and supporting farmers with inputs and resources essential for enhanced food security.

As African governments face mounting pressure to address food insecurity, Obasanjo’s message reinforces the need for consistent policies and public-private collaborations to unlock the continent’s agricultural potential.