Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has unveiled plans to restore the state’s position as Nigeria’s leading rubber producer, with a focus on industrial development, job creation and improved opportunities for farmers.
The governor said the state would prioritise value addition in the rubber industry rather than rely solely on the production of raw materials.
Okpebholo stated this on Tuesday through his Chief of Staff, Yakubu Musa, who represented him at the International Rubber Research and Development Board Fellowship, Training and International Rubber Conference in Benin City.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, the governor described rubber as a significant part of Edo State’s economic heritage.
He said the state had an estimated 40,000 hectares of land under rubber cultivation, supported by large plantations and thousands of smallholder farmers.
“Rubber is part of our economic heritage, and we are determined to translate that heritage into renewed hope and prosperity. We intend to return as Nigeria’s leading rubber producer,” Okpebholo said.
He noted that achieving the ambition would require investment in research, modern farming techniques, sustainable production methods and stronger partnerships between government, academic institutions and private-sector operators.
The governor also highlighted the contributions of the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria and the IRRDB to improving productivity and advancing innovation within the industry.
He urged participants at the conference to develop practical solutions that would strengthen the sector, attract investment and establish lasting partnerships beyond the event.
Okpebholo further encouraged international delegates to explore investment opportunities in the state’s agricultural and industrial sectors, assuring them of the government’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment.
The conference attracted delegates from the 23 member countries of the IRRDB, alongside researchers, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders.
Expressing optimism about the outcome of the gathering, the governor said the conference would deepen international cooperation and promote a more productive and competitive rubber industry.
“Edo’s rubber legacy is our foundation; innovation is our pathway; and global leadership is our ambition,” he added.
