By Adeyemi Saheed
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Osun State Coordinating Office, and the Knowledge Is Power Coconut Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria (KIPCOGAN) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration aimed at promoting coconut cultivation, processing, value addition and investment opportunities in Osun State.
The renewed partnership was highlighted during a Stakeholders Engagement Meeting held on 9 July 2026 in Gbongan ahead of KIPCOGAN’s proposed Investors’ Forum. The meeting brought together government officials, growers, processors, cooperative leaders and community representatives to discuss strategies for advancing the coconut industry in the state.
Speaking at the engagement, the Osun State Coordinator of RMRDC, Mr. Adeyemi Saheed A., described coconut as a strategic raw material with significant potential to drive industrialisation, create employment and support economic diversification.
He noted that increased cultivation and processing of coconut could stimulate the production of food products, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, activated carbon and fibre-based materials, while also improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
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Mr. Adeyemi urged stakeholders to adopt improved plantation management practices, utilise quality seedlings and embrace modern processing technologies. He added that stronger collaboration among growers, processors, researchers and investors would be essential for building a sustainable coconut value chain.
According to him, the proposed Investors’ Forum is expected to attract investment, strengthen local processing capacity and deepen linkages across the industry.
In his remarks, the National Chairman of KIPCOGAN, Rev. Adewunmi Adeyemi, commended RMRDC for its continued support to the association and for previously hosting KIPCOGAN members at the Council’s headquarters in Abuja.
He disclosed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is being prepared between KIPCOGAN and RMRDC to establish a formal framework for technical collaboration, capacity building, research support, investment promotion and the development of the coconut value chain in Osun State.
Rev. Adeyemi explained that the proposed agreement would provide a structured platform for joint initiatives aimed at improving coconut production, enhancing processing standards and attracting private-sector participation in the industry.
He further suggested that the Investors’ Forum and seminar be scheduled after the Osun State Governorship Election of 15 August 2026 to allow for broader stakeholder participation. He also recommended the selection of a neutral and accessible venue and announced that registration for improved coconut seedlings would commence during the event.
During the deliberations, Comrade Kolawole Idowu emphasised the importance of inclusiveness in the organisation of the Investors’ Forum, proposing a religiously neutral venue and wider representation in the mobilisation committee.
The engagement strengthened cooperation between RMRDC and KIPCOGAN, advanced plans for the Investors’ Forum and reinforced efforts to attract investment, promote commercial coconut cultivation and expand the coconut value chain in Osun State.
