From Moshood Karim
Senator Neda Imasuen, who represents Edo South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has called on his constituents to embrace the vast opportunities available within the oil palm sector, highlighting its potential for economic empowerment and diversification.
The Senator made this call during the presentation of his legislative scorecard at the Benin Club Health and Palm Oil Colloquium held at the prestigious Benin Club 1931 in Benin City.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Imasuen emphasised the need for constituents to acquire the requisite knowledge to navigate the complexities of the oil palm business. He described the colloquium as a platform designed to expose participants to the sector’s immense benefits, encouraging them to seize the opportunity.
“I thought it necessary to bring this to the fore for all of my constituents, to see the potential that lies in the oil palm business,” Imasuen said. “With the expertise of Dr Gold Leonard Isona from NIFOR, participants now have a clearer path to understanding and succeeding in this sector. I hope and pray that this colloquium has illuminated the possibilities and will inspire many to venture into the business.”
The Senator further disclosed plans to engage with Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to address challenges around land acquisition for agricultural ventures. According to Imasuen, easing access to land would catalyse investment in oil palm farming and, by extension, strengthen the State’s economy.
“If the State can generate as much as $2 billion from a single agricultural product, it would significantly boost our economic standing,” he remarked, stressing the importance of moving away from over-reliance on crude oil revenues towards broader economic diversification.
Earlier, Dr Evazi Beye-Isibo, President of Benin Club 1931, commended Senator Imasuen for his foresight in organising the event, noting that such initiatives bridge knowledge gaps and empower citizens.
“I want to thank the Senator. It is a rare honour to benefit from such an enlightening lecture,” Dr Beye-Isibo said. “I am confident that today’s session will clear lingering doubts and chart a clearer course for those interested in the business.”
Delivering the keynote lecture, Managing Director of the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), Dr Isona Gold, underscored the health and economic significance of palm oil. He urged participants to consider investing in oil palm cultivation to meet growing local demand.
“Palm oil is vital, not only as a nutritional resource but also as a sustainable means of livelihood,” Dr Gold noted. “Given the current supply deficits in the local economy, collective efforts are required to scale production and achieve self-sufficiency.”
Participants at the colloquium expressed gratitude to Senator Imasuen for organising the initiative, affirming that the event provided valuable insights into the oil palm business and its attendant opportunities.
The colloquium concluded with renewed enthusiasm among constituents to venture into the oil palm industry, positioning Edo as a potential hub for agricultural innovation and prosperity.
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