After the five-day Industrial Investment Summit held at Osun State University, Osogbo, stakeholders have made several significant recommendations to propel the state’s development.
They urged the state government to collaborate with Israeli technology providers to revolutionize agriculture, aiming for a 350% increase in crop yields. This collaboration should extend to poultry, health, communication, security, and education sectors as well.
The communique also stressed the importance of maximizing the state’s mineral resource potential. It suggested re-evaluating mineral deposits and updating the mineral database to attract investors. Additionally, improving local refining capacities to enhance gold purity from 96% to 99% was recommended. The stakeholders proposed creating gold coins (“OSUN COIN”) and working with the Nigerian Stock Exchange to ensure transparent transactions.
To prepare for future advancements in technology, stakeholders called for a revitalization of existing ICT centers in higher institutions and public centers. This includes implementing comprehensive technology literacy programs, installing AI software, and providing training in robotics.
The communique highlighted the need to implement a digital economy strategy to connect Osun State to global networks. This should involve enhancing internet resources for marketing, information dissemination, and online transactions.
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In the realm of tourism, the stakeholders recommended a focused industrialization of the state’s cultural assets. They urged aggressive marketing of tourism potential and the promotion of significant sites such as Apomu, Igbajo yam, and Ila waterfall. The development of medical, environmental, geological, and sports tourism was also emphasized.
Lastly, the stakeholders advocated for the creation of a knowledge-based economy through partnerships with local and international higher institutions, aligning with the Triple-Helix Model outlined in the state’s Sustainable Industrial Policy.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, in his closing remarks, reiterated his administration’s commitment to making Osun the preferred destination for investment, business, and tourism in the South West. He assured that the recommendations from the summit would be implemented to drive industrialization in the state.
State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, noted that the summit’s outcomes are aimed at improving living standards, addressing unemployment, reducing dependency on civil servant salaries, and combating poverty.
