As a true gene of Ibadanland, my father, of blessed memory, was the first narrator of the history of our land to my hearing. He said, “Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is one of the oldest and largest cities in West Africa, historically known for its prominence in trade, education, and administration.” Within this urban metropolis lies the Ibadan North West/South West Federal Constituency, a constituency with untapped industrial potential. Even though this area has a strategic location, its industrial development has progressed slowly. Nevertheless, with focused investment, effective planning, and inclusive governance, this constituency has the potential to develop into a vibrant industrial center. Here, I outline a pragmatic roadmap for its factory-based economy.
- Harnessing the Strategic Location
The Ibadan North West/South West constituency enjoys excellent access to transportation networks, major expressways, proximity to the Ibadan Inland Dry Port, and the recently completed Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge railway. These logistical advantages can be leveraged to attract manufacturing industries, logistics firms, and export-oriented businesses.
My Action Points:
- Upgrade road infrastructure in and around industrial clusters.
- Improve last-mile connectivity to the Lagos-Ibadan rail line.
- Establish industrial parks with easy access to transport facilities.
- Developing Industrial Infrastructure
The absence of dedicated industrial zones has stifled industrial takeoff in this region. There is a pressing need for the development of modern, well-equipped industrial estates with access to stable electricity, water, waste management, and security.
My Action Points:
- Partner with the private sector to build modular industrial parks in key wards.
- Leverage state government initiatives and federal intervention programs (such as the NIRP – Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan).
- Provide incentives for investors such as tax holidays and land grants.
- Empowering the Workforce Through Skill Development
An industrial revolution cannot thrive without a skilled labour force. While Ibadan is home to reputable institutions like the University of Ibadan and The Polytechnic, there is a skills gap between academia and the practical needs of industries.
My Action Points:
- Establish technical and vocational training centres across the constituency.
- Promote public-private partnerships in skill acquisition programs.
- Encourage apprenticeship schemes in local industries and businesses.
- Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
SMEs are the backbone of any industrialized economy. The constituency is already rich with artisans, agro-processors, fashion designers, and informal manufacturers. With the right support, these players can grow into medium-scale industries.
My Action Points:
- Create a local SME development fund.
- Facilitate access to low-interest loans and business advisory services.
- Organize periodic trade fairs and exhibitions to showcase local products.
- Promoting Agro-Industrial Development
Given the rich agricultural belt surrounding Ibadan, agro-processing presents a great opportunity. From cassava, maize, and cocoa to fruits and vegetables, there is abundant raw material for agro-based industries.
My Action Points:
- Build community-based agro-processing centres.
- Support farmers’ cooperatives with storage, transport, and marketing solutions.
- Link agricultural production with food packaging and export initiatives.
- Leveraging ICT and Innovation
To future-proof the economy, digital innovation must be a key component of the industrialization roadmap. Ibadan can position itself as a regional hub for light tech manufacturing and innovation.
My Action Points:
- Develop tech hubs and innovation centres in partnership with universities.
- Promote start-ups in software, electronics assembly, and digital fabrication.
- Attract tech investors by providing enabling policies and infrastructure.
- Governance, Policy, and Stakeholder Engagement
For any roadmap to succeed, it must be backed by strong governance and the active involvement of all stakeholders including government, traditional rulers, community leaders, the private sector, and youth.
My Action Points:
- Create a constituency industrial development council.
- Institutionalize policy continuity across political transitions.
- Engage citizens through town halls and participatory planning.
Conclusion
The mechanization of Ibadan North West/South West Federal Constituency is not a dream too far-fetched as I am ready to take the baton with the revamped slogan ‘’Iseya!’’. With a well-defined strategy, determination from political leaders, support from the community, and trust from investors, this area has the potential to serve as a benchmark for sustainable urban industrial growth in Nigeria. It’s time to shift from possibilities to tangible achievements, “Ogo Oluyole 2027!”
Written by:
Amoye Adeyemi Sodiq O.
President and Founder,
Mr Learner Support Foundation
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