Osun state flags-off construction of fruit processing plant

The Government of the State of Osun has flagged off the construction of a fruit juice production company sited at the Omoluabi Free Trade Zone, Osogbo and pioneered by Collins Crown Limited, to facilitate the processing of several agricultural produce in the state.

Governor of the state, Adegboyega Oyetola, who inaugurated the company, said the citing of the company in Osogbo was apt, as the state is economically endowed with great potential for fruits harvest and the fruit juice production plant was necessary so that several tons of agricultural produce which rot away annually could be gainfully utilised as raw materials for the industry.

He added that they’re poised to harness Osun’s potential in all sectors for maximum socio-economic gains.

He said the government was also committed to creating a friendly business environment for investors in the state, particularly in the agricultural industry.

According to him, the development was in line with the administration’s commitment to ensuring that the massive investment opportunities available in the state are taken advantage of by wise investors.

Oyetola added that Osun was blessed with pineapple in Ejigbo, Irepodun and Ifelodun Local Government Areas, and oranges in Ife/Ijesha, Iwo zones and some other parts of the states.

He added that the new company would open a window of employment opportunities for the teeming citizens particularly the unemployed youths.

“As you know, our administration runs with a conviction that building the Osun of our dream requires that we have an economy that is revitalised on account of the volume of economic activities that it encourages. This will create wealth and meaningfully engage our unemployed youths.

“Following the Economic and Investment Summit we hosted in 2019, we established the Osun Investment and Promotion Agency (OSIPA) to interface with investors.

“Working with the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Cooperatives, the Agency is to ensure that we work hard at improving our ease of doing business and eliminate identifiable bottlenecks that can frustrate investors.

“Only a few days ago, I inaugurated the State Council for the implementation of the National Policy on MSMEs. This is to further support our implementation of relevant policies to support business operations in our State,” he said.

On his part, Chairman, Collins Crown Limited, Mr Kola Adeyemo, said the company was prepared to ensure successful completion and take-off of the project, noting that all needed facilities were on ground.