In what looks like a landmark move to bolster Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) has entered into a strategic partnership with Southwest Agribusiness Company Limited (SWAgCo), a leading agribusiness investment arm of Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL).
This collaboration aims to revolutionise smallholder farming by leveraging innovative investments and comprehensive support programmes designed to unlock the region’s full agricultural potential. The partnership signifies more than just capital as it embodies a shared vision to transform rural livelihoods, boost food security, and foster sustainable economic growth across Southwest Nigeria.
At its core is a commitment to empowering smallholder farmers through access to quality inputs, modern training, and market linkages.
“Our collaboration with SWAgCo is a massive step toward redefining how agriculture supports rural communities. Together, we are not only investing in crops but investing in the people, the backbone of Nigeria’s food production,” said Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of BATNF.
At the heart of this partnership is a groundbreaking ₦65 million Smallholder Maize Scheme in Ekiti State. The initiative targets 100 farmers and offers a comprehensive package: inputs such as quality seeds and fertilisers, capacity-building training, and robust market access to ensure these farmers can translate their efforts into sustainable income.
Odusanya stressed that this scheme exemplifies how strategic investments can ignite rural enterprise, foster job creation, and catalyse economic diversification especially in the Southwest region, a vital hub of Nigeria’s agricultural development.
On his part, Dr. Theo Adewale Onadeko, Chief Executive Officer of SWAgCo, said that the company’s recent launch of a ₦10 billion agribusiness drive highlights a shared commitment to industrialise agriculture and unlock the full potential of Southwest Nigeria. This initiative, he added, is more than just funding; it’s about cultivating a resilient and innovative agricultural ecosystem.
Commenting on the partnership with BATNF, he said: “Our partnership with BATNF aligns perfectly with our goal of transforming smallholder farming into a lucrative, sustainable enterprise. We are committed to supporting hardworking farmers who are vital to Nigeria’s food security and economic growth.”
The collaboration highlights a strategic alignment that combines Odu’a Investment’s regional influence, SWAgCo’s investment capacity, and BATNF’s track record of impactful community support. The collective aim is clear: to elevate smallholders, modernise agricultural practices, and make Nigeria’s agriculture sector more competitive and resilient.
By Ajibola Adedoye