BY TONY OGBEBOR
BENIN CITY – The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has commended the Edo State Government and its flagship agricultural initiative, the Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP), for their achievements in advancing sustainable oil palm practices.
The recognition was delivered during an official visit to Edo State by a delegation from the RSPO, led by Mr. Tri Budiono, Senior Manager of the Global Independent Smallholder Organization Programme.
The RSPO team assessed the implementation and impact of its Community Outreach Programme in Edo between 2022 and 2024.
Speaking during the engagement, Mr. Budiono praised the State’s efforts in aligning with global sustainability standards.
Expressing appreciation for the State’s hospitality and applauding its growing framework for sustainable development, Mr. Budiono assured that the RSPO would explore deeper collaboration with Edo State in the months ahead.
He noted the significance of ESOPP’s work in protecting community rights, preserving the environment, and ensuring transparency.
Mr. Churchill Oboh, General Manager of the ESOPP Independent Implementation Office, highlighted the State’s success as a result of sound policies and strategic partnerships.
“What we see here is not accidental,” he said. “It is the product of vision, investment, and unwavering support from the government.”
Key discussions during the visit focused on enhancing the RSPO’s Jurisdictional Approach in Edo, mirroring models from Ecuador and Serbia.
Mr. Oboh also highlighted initiatives such as increased agricultural budget allocations, improved investment climate, and the innovative “Back to Farm” Campaign, which is mobilising youths into agriculture and addressing rural unemployment.
At the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the RSPO delegation was received by Mr. Dave Ogunbor, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Peter Osagie.
Ogunbor reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and maintaining collaboration with global partners.
