In a move aimed at transforming land governance and attracting sustainable agricultural investments, the Ogun State Government has announced the proposal for a Land Management Agency. This initiative is designed to evolve from the Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agricultural Investments (FRILIA), which is supported by the World Bank under the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP).
The announcement was made during a Stakeholders’ Review Workshop at the Obas’ Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, marking a significant step toward enhancing land management practices in the region.
Mr. Bolu Owotomo, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kehinde Jokotoye, called the proposal a landmark initiative that would establish a legal framework for inclusive and sustainable land governance in the state. He stressed that the enactment of the bill to create the agency would not only reinforce Ogun State’s leadership in land management but also position it as a model for other regions across Nigeria.
“The institutionalisation of FRILIA into a Land Management Agency will ensure better coordination of land-use policies and promote responsible agricultural development,” Owotomo said. “It will embed FRILIA’s principles across sectors, aligning inter-agency efforts for greater impact.”
FRILIA, a key component of OGSTEP, has already made significant strides in addressing challenges related to land acquisition, use, and transparency. Over 62,000 hectares of government-acquired agricultural land have undergone a comprehensive audit, establishing a solid foundation for strategic land-use planning. More than 4,000 hectares have been allocated to agricultural investors through a structured evaluation process, ensuring transparency in the allocation process.
Additionally, FRILIA has introduced critical tools, including Environmental and Social Risk Management frameworks, Grievance Redress Mechanisms, and Resettlement, Valuation, and Compensation frameworks, which have been vital in fostering responsible and transparent agricultural investment.
The State Solicitor-General, Mr. Segun Olaotan, represented by Mr. Bankole Mafe, provided further details on the proposed agency’s operational structure. He explained that the agency would be led by a Director-General appointed by the Governor and overseen by a board chaired by the Commissioner for Agriculture. The board will also include representatives from key sectors to ensure regulatory compliance and policy development.
Oladipupo Sofowora, OGSTEP’s FRILIA Specialist, emphasized the role of the initiative in building investor trust and fostering mutually beneficial relationships between the government, investors, and host communities. He noted that many host communities have already begun to experience the benefits of social amenities provided by agricultural investors.
Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, the Chairman of the OGSTEP Project Technical Committee and Commissioner for Budget and Planning, lauded FRILIA’s impact in addressing land allocation challenges and boosting investor confidence.
“The transparency introduced by FRILIA has created a more conducive environment for agricultural investments, benefiting both investors and host communities,” Olabimtan remarked.
World Bank FRILIA Expert, Mr. Darryl Vhugen, commended Ogun State for its exemplary implementation of the FRILIA framework, describing it as a trailblazer for Nigeria. He underscored the importance of maintaining transparency and collaboration to attract further investments and create job opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Hon. Ifedolapo Owode, Chairman of the Ogun State House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, assured stakeholders of the legislature’s commitment to the swift passage of the proposed bill.
The technical mission, which began with visits to key government stakeholders, will continue with training for prospective Land Management Authority (LMA) staff and a field visit to the FRILIA Pilot Project Site. The event was attended by other prominent figures, including the Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela, represented by Mrs. Florence Olugbenro.
As Ogun State continues to lead in agricultural development, this proposal is seen as a critical move in shaping the future of land management and boosting agricultural investments in the state.
