The Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State has sealed a bilateral agricultural development partnership with the City of Dover in the United States, marking what officials describe as a major step toward shared food security initiatives and cross-border knowledge exchange.
Chairman of Obafemi Owode LG, Ambassador Adesina ’Lanre Ogunsola, confirmed the agreement during an official award presentation and cultural exchange ceremony held on Monday in Dover, Delaware.
Ogunsola, who addressed the Dover Legislative Council at a plenary session, said the partnership would drive mechanised farming, joint agricultural research and youth agro-entrepreneurship programmes.
He announced that the local government had approved 10 hectares of land for the kickoff of the joint agricultural project.
“This partnership will allow our farmers, agronomists and policymakers to share innovations capable of transforming local economies,” Ogunsola said, adding that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on collaboration and bilateral trade.
The chairman said Obafemi Owode’s agricultural potential, fertile land and strategic location between Lagos and Abeokuta position it as a strong partner for international food-production initiatives.
He noted that his visit to Dover was undertaken with the support of Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun and the blessings of President Tinubu.
Ogunsola also received two honours during the event: the Prestigious Leadership Award from Dover Mayor Robin R. Christiansen, and the Distinguished Service and Partnership Award from Ms. Jody R. Simundza. He described the recognition as a tribute to people-centred governance and the deepening friendship between both communities.
Recalling an earlier visit on April 22, 2025, Ogunsola said the symbolic gesture by Mayor Christiansen—inviting him to sit in the mayoral chair—cemented a bond that “reflects humility in leadership and respect in diplomacy.”
Speaking at the event, Mayor Christiansen praised Ogunsola’s leadership and said Dover was fully committed to implementing the agricultural partnership. He said the success of the initiative would be supported by the city council and the Delaware state government.
“The legacy of service demonstrated by Ambassador Ogunsola inspires our continued friendship and strengthens the unity between our communities,” the mayor stated.
He also acknowledged Nigerians contributing to governance in the US, including Dr. Charles Adejoro, Special Assistant on International Relations, whom he credited for supporting the diplomatic link.
Ogunsola was accompanied by the Chief Whip of Obafemi Owode Legislative Council, Hon. Adekunke Abdulateef, and other officials.
The event was documented by Ibikunle Kayode and officially released by Prince Segun Soneye, Director of Information, Obafemi Owode Local Government.
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