Ile-Ife on the verge of industrial recovery: The Ojuade intervention
By Jeleel Olawale
Ile-Ife, the ancient town, is widely regarded as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation and culture. It has long been recognised as a centre of tradition and tourism.
Historically, the town has faced significant industrial challenges, with no major companies apart from government-owned institutions such as Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital. The local economy has largely depended on these institutions for economic sustenance.
For years, the absence of large-scale industries hindered rapid development, setting Ile-Ife apart from other major towns in the state. The town, however, is rich in agricultural resources, with extensive farmlands. In recent times, many young people have turned to cocoa farming, contributing to the agricultural sector.
Despite having a number of prominent individuals who could invest in the town’s industrial growth, many have hesitated due to concerns about potential risks or a lack of interest in the town’s economic agenda.
Stakeholders, such as Mr Yomi Layinka, have expressed concerns over the lack of community engagement, describing it as a major obstacle to Ile-Ife’s development. He noted that some individuals have prioritised personal gains over collective progress, which has hampered growth.
In 2022, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, unveiled IfeVision 2050 during the annual Ife Day celebration. This strategic development agenda aims to transform Ile-Ife into a modern, industrialised city, turning it into an economic hub for the state. Addressing business executives, technocrats, international diplomats, policymakers, and financial leaders, Oba Ogunwusi emphasised the importance of changing the town’s economic narrative.
The absence of a unified approach has slowed development efforts in the past. However, there is now a growing consensus among stakeholders about the need for creative and sustainable strategies to drive progress.
The long-standing challenge of industrial stagnation in Ile-Ife is gradually changing, thanks to initiatives by concerned Ife indigenes. One notable intervention is by Hon. Bukola Ojuade, who has made significant strides in establishing industries in the town.
Three major industries—Ojuade Farms, Ojuade Feed Mills, and Clasi Royale Table Water—have played a transformative role in the local economy. These ventures have not only created thousands of jobs but have also positioned Ile-Ife as a growing agricultural and industrial centre in Osun State.
Ojuade Farms, located on the outskirts of Ile-Ife, is a large-scale agricultural enterprise founded by Bukola Ojuade to bridge the gap in local industry and reduce unemployment. The farm has since become one of the largest poultry operations in the state, specialising in high-quality chicken production for meat and eggs.
The farm’s rapid growth has significantly impacted the local economy by providing employment opportunities for hundreds of workers, including farmhands, veterinarians, quality control officers, and administrative staff. It has particularly benefited women and young people, offering them stable livelihoods.
Additionally, the farm has stimulated local agricultural production, increasing demand for crops such as maize and soybeans, which are essential for poultry feed. This has, in turn, boosted income for local farmers, creating a ripple effect in the economy.
As Ojuade Farms expanded, it became evident that a reliable and cost-effective source of animal feed was essential. This led to the establishment of Ojuade Feed Mills, a modern facility dedicated to producing high-quality poultry feed.
The feed mill sources ingredients from local farmers, strengthening the agricultural supply chain in Ile-Ife. By reducing dependence on expensive imported feeds, the mill has helped poultry farmers improve their production efficiency.
Beyond supporting the farming sector, the feed mill has also created employment in production, quality assurance, logistics, and administration. Additionally, it offers training and workshops to local farmers, equipping them with modern farming techniques to increase crop yields.
Access to clean and reliable water is crucial for large-scale agriculture. Recognising the persistent water scarcity in Ile-Ife, Clasi Royale Table Water was established to provide a steady supply of purified water to both residents and businesses.
The company operates a state-of-the-art water treatment plant, using advanced technology to ensure the distribution of safe drinking water across the city and surrounding areas. This initiative has complemented existing water supply systems, raising the standard of water management in the town.
Professor Adeola Shobola, a leader of IFECCIMA, recently visited Clasi Royale Table Water and commended its impact on the local economy. He described it as a pioneering investment that has created employment and improved the standard of living in Ile-Ife.
The combined effects of Ojuade Farms, Ojuade Feed Mills, and Clasi Royale Table Water have been transformative for Ile-Ife’s economy. These industries have created thousands of direct and indirect jobs across sectors such as farming, manufacturing, logistics, and administration.
For young people, the industries have provided valuable career opportunities, introducing training programmes that equip them with skills in modern farming, feed production, and water management. These initiatives have helped many residents gain employable skills, thereby improving household incomes and lifting families out of poverty.
Local businesses have also benefited from the increased demand for raw materials, machinery, and transportation services. Small enterprises, including retail shops and logistics firms, have flourished by supplying essential goods and services to the expanding industrial sector.
The emergence of these industries has dispelled fears that establishing businesses in Ile-Ife is risky due to past communal and political tensions. The town’s economic landscape is undergoing a positive transformation, proving that with innovation, collaboration, and sustainable investment, progress is achievable.
Looking ahead, sustainability remains a key focus for these enterprises. Ojuade Farms, Feed Mills, and Clasi Royale Water continue to invest in renewable energy and efficient water management technologies to ensure long-term growth.
The success of these industries serves as a model for other Ife indigenes, encouraging them to invest in the town’s development. As these ventures expand, they will remain central to Ile-Ife’s economic future, providing employment, supporting local businesses, and fostering a more prosperous community for generations to come.
This transformation demonstrates how modern industries, when founded on sustainable practices, can drive economic growth and revitalise communities. With continued investment and commitment, Ile-Ife is well on its way to becoming a thriving economic hub.
