Food firm partners Ondo to drive job creation, empowerment
Matna Foods Company is strengthening efforts to drive economic empowerment and job creation in Ondo State through strategic collaboration with key ministries. The partnership aligns with implementation of Women in
Matna Foods Company is strengthening efforts to drive economic empowerment and job creation in Ondo State through strategic collaboration with key ministries.
The partnership aligns with implementation of Women in Sourcing and Enterprise, an initiative to empower 3,000 youth outgrower farmers, with 80 per cent expected to be women between 18 and 35, through participation in cassava value chain.
The programme, which is with Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta Foundation, aimed at supporting farmers with access to improved input, technical training, and guaranteed market opportunities through processing facilities, such as Matna Foods.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement at Matna Foods facility, Managing Director of Matna Foods Company Limited and Agbeyewa Farms, Mr. Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, noted: “This initiative is about building a sustainable ecosystem that empowers farmers while ensuring reliable feedstock for agro-processing. By connecting young farmers to structured markets, we are creating jobs and laying the foundation for inclusive agricultural growth that benefits communities in Ondo State.”
Aiyeleso noted the vision of Chair of Cavista Holdings, Niyi Olajide, who believes business is a force for goods that can transform lives and strengthen communities.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olaleye Akinola, said: “Agriculture is a key pillar of economic development. Through this, we can mobilise land, technical expertise, and support to empower farmers and ensure a supply of raw materials for agro-processing firms such as Matna Foods. The ministry will work with stakeholders to ensure success of programmess that strengthen the cassava value chain.”
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Also, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Seun Bosede Osamaye, commended the initiatives, adding that: “When we saw the structure of this initiative, particularly the focus on young women and other vulnerable groups, it became clear that it aligns strongly with the mandate of our ministry. Programs like this create meaningful opportunities for women to achieve economic independence and contribute to the development of their communities.”
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Segun Omoyofunmmi said: “Our priority as a ministry is to ensure that young people are provided with opportunities that take them off the streets and position them for self-reliance. Agriculture offers tremendous potential for employment, and initiatives like the one being driven by Matna Foods help equip young people with the skills and opportunities needed to become productive members of the economy.”
Providing further insight into the initiative, Project Coordinator Ayo Obe explained that the WISE Program is structured to run for 39 months, supporting participants through two cultivation cycles. Beneficiaries will begin with 0.4 hectares of farmland, with the opportunity to expand production in subsequent phases as they gain experience and capacity. According to Obe, the program will combine farmer training, extension support, and structured market access through Matna Foods’ processing operations to ensure sustainable participation in the cassava value chain and contribute to long-term economic growth in Ondo State.
