In a landmark move aimed at boosting the state’s economy and improving food security, the Bayelsa State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dangote Group, Africa’s largest conglomerate, to establish rice clusters and explore opportunities in the oil and gas sector.
The signing ceremony, which took place at the Government House in Yenagoa, marks a new chapter in the state’s drive for sustainable development, job creation, and private sector investment.
According to officials present at the event, the MoU outlines strategic collaboration between Bayelsa State and the Dangote Group in:
🔹 Developing large-scale rice farming and processing clusters in selected local government areas across the state. This move is expected to boost local rice production, reduce dependence on imported rice, and empower thousands of farmers, especially in the rural communities.
🔹 Enhancing investment in the oil and gas value chain, with special focus on gas utilization, modular refining, and local content participation. Bayelsa, being a key oil-producing state in the Niger Delta, stands to benefit from Dangote’s industrial experience and financial strength.
Speaking at the event, Governor Douye Diri described the partnership as “a bold step towards diversifying the economy of Bayelsa beyond oil dependency.” He expressed optimism that the partnership with the Dangote Group would usher in a new era of agro-industrial and energy-based prosperity for the state.
In his remarks, a representative of the Dangote Group said:
“Bayelsa State has enormous untapped potential. With this MoU, we are committed to working closely with the government and people to harness these opportunities for mutual growth and national development.”
This development is expected to create thousands of jobs, stimulate infrastructure development, and attract more investors to the state.
Bayelsans have welcomed the news with enthusiasm, describing it as a much-needed economic revival that could put the state on the map as a major player in both agriculture and energy.
Stay tuned with as we continue to monitor the implementation of this groundbreaking agreement.
Source: Aproko Gist Africa.
