By Afolaranmi Damilare
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) and the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) are set to host a one-day Investors Forum on Sweet Potato Value Chain Development in Osun State. The forum aims to unlock the economic potential of sweet potatoes, a crop that holds immense promise for food security, job creation, and economic growth in the state.
The Osun State Coordinator of RMRDC, Mr. Adeyemi Saheed A., said that the Council was excited to invite Prof. Adebayo Akinola to be the key speaker at the upcoming forum. He emphasized that the development of the sweet potato value chain was crucial for promoting economic growth, creating jobs, and improving food security in the state. Mr. Adeyemi noted that Prof. Adebayo’s expertise in Agricultural Economics would provide valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges in the sweet potato value chain. He expressed confidence that Prof. Adebayo’s participation would not only add value to the event but also inspire investors to explore opportunities in Osun State’s agricultural sector.

The Coordinator of NRCRI, Dr. Mrs. Akinbo-Ajifowowe Oladunni, said that the institute was thrilled to partner with RMRDC to organize the forum. She emphasized that the partnership would harness the strengths of both institutions to unlock the potential of sweet potatoes, a crop that holds immense promise for food security, job creation, and economic growth in the state. Dr. Mrs. Akinbo-Ajifowowe noted that sweet potatoes are a valuable resource that can be transformed into various products, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
Prof. Adebayo Akinola, Department of Agricultural Economics, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, said he was honoured and delighted to accept the invitation to be a key speaker at the forum. He expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that the development of the sweet potato value chain has the potential to transform the state’s economy, improve food security, and create jobs. Prof. Adebayo emphasized that his participation in the forum would be a valuable opportunity to share his expertise and insights on Agricultural Economics, particularly in relation to sweet potato production. He commended RMRDC and NRCRI for their efforts in promoting the development of the sweet potato value chain and pledged to support the initiative through his expertise and knowledge.
The forum is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, showcase innovations, and develop strategies for the development of the sweet potato value chain. With the participation of key stakeholders and industry experts, the forum is poised to yield tangible results and recommendations for the growth of the sweet potato industry in Osun State.







