Edo, Saudi Arabia explore partnership to attract agricultural investments

By Osho Olatonmiwa

The Edo State Government has opened discussions with Saudi Arabian officials to attract foreign investment into its agriculture and livestock sectors as part of efforts to boost food security and expand production.

The initiative was led by the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Ohimai Ehijimetor, during a strategic meeting with officials of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Abuja.

At the meeting, Ehijimetor engaged the Deputy Ambassador, Abdulrahman Altwaim, and the Head of Economic Cooperation, Yazid Halawani, on investment opportunities and potential partnerships to strengthen the state’s agricultural and livestock value chains.

The commissioner disclosed that the embassy had pledged support for the Edo International Agricultural and Livestock Investment Summit, scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.

He said the embassy also agreed to help mobilise investors and facilitate direct engagements with investment companies in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

He said the engagement aligned with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s drive to attract foreign direct investment and position Edo State as a leading destination for agricultural and livestock businesses.

Ehijimetor expressed optimism that sustained collaboration would attract new investments, boost production capacity and create economic opportunities across the state’s agricultural value chains.

Also present at the meeting were the Special Adviser on Livestock Development, Hon. Roland Igbadumhe, and the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture and Food Security, Emmanuel Sule, who are coordinating the state’s engagements with diplomatic missions ahead of the investment summit.