Benin, Edo – The Edo State Government, in partnership with IDH Netherlands, has commenced phase II of the National Initiative for Sustainable and Climate Smart Oil Palm Smallholders (NI-SCOPS II).

This initiative aims to empower and develop oil palm smallholder farmers in the state, building upon the successes achieved in phase I, which focused on the Okomu landscape.

The Managing Director of Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO)-Ease of Doing Business Secretariat, Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi emphasised the state government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the programme, recognising its potential to drive economic growth and development. He stated that the government is dedicated to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

“The state government is fully committed to supporting this initiative,” Uwaibi noted, “recognising its potential to drive economic growth and development.”  

“This collaboration with IDH is essential for advancing the state’s Green Development Plan, as captured in the recently launched 30-year master plan.”

The workshop, held in Benin City, brought together key stakeholders from the private sector and government agencies to discuss the priorities for the upcoming phase II of NI-SCOPS.