By Reen Chidi
Delta State’s agricultural sector is set for a significant boost following plans by Olam Agri to establish an animal feed production plant in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area, with the state government granting the company 99.99 hectares of land for the project.
The development is expected to strengthen livestock production, bridge the animal feed supply gap in the South-South and South-East regions, and reduce their dependence on supplies from the South-West.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori presented the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to Olam Agri at a ceremony held at Government House, Asaba, on Wednesday October 28, 2026, describing the initiative as part of his administration’s commitment to promoting agricultural investment, food security and economic development.
Speaking at the event, the governor reaffirmed his government’s determination to provide a conducive environment for investors, noting that peace, adherence to due process and collaboration among stakeholders were critical to attracting investments and sustaining economic growth.
He said the land allocation demonstrated the administration’s commitment to expanding agricultural opportunities and encouraging investments capable of creating jobs, stimulating economic activities and improving the living standards of residents.
“This occasion reflects our commitment to following due process in all our dealings. As a government, we are determined to create an enabling environment for investors to thrive and for businesses to grow,” Oborevwori said.
The governor stressed that peaceful coexistence and unity within communities remained important factors in attracting investors, adding that the government would continue to support credible businesses willing to contribute to the state’s development.
According to him, partnerships with reputable companies in the agricultural sector would help increase food production, generate employment and improve livelihoods across Delta State.
Oborevwori also commended the traditional institution and other stakeholders for their contributions towards maintaining the peace and cooperation required to attract investments, assuring that his administration would sustain efforts to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.
In his remarks, Olam Agri’s Managing Director, Mr Amit Agarwal, explained that the company selected the South-South and South-East as strategic locations for its proposed animal feed production facility because of the regions’ reliance on supplies from the South-West.
Agarwal disclosed that Olam Agri already operates production plants in the South-West but intends to bring its operations closer to markets in the two regions to improve distribution, enhance accessibility and address the existing feed supply deficit.
He expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for its support, pledging the company’s readiness to work closely with the government, traditional rulers and the host community to ensure the successful execution of the project.
The Olam Agri chief executive noted that collaboration among the relevant stakeholders would be essential to achieving the objectives of the investment and delivering benefits to the region.
Also speaking, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, HRM Obi Dr Ifechukwudi Okonjo II, called on the company to ensure that the host community derived tangible benefits from the project.
He urged Olam Agri to prioritise local employment, internship placements, skills acquisition and technology transfer, stressing the importance of creating opportunities that would empower residents and equip young people with relevant expertise.
The proposed facility is expected to contribute to the development of the agricultural value chain in Delta State while creating opportunities for local participation in the livestock and animal feed industries.
