Vice President Kashim Shettima, has commissioned a $12 million Springfield Agro Chemical Factory that will revolutionise local production and bolster the country’s economic growth.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of Springfield Agro Limited, a member of Kewalram Chanrai Group, that deals in crop protection chemical plant held at the company’s facility in Ewu-Osi, Sagamu, on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Ogun State yesterday, Shettima stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in boosting agricultural productivity and industrial capacity.
The newly-commissioned plant, built with an estimated investment of over $12 million, has an initial production capacity of approximately 30 million litres of agrochemicals across three production lines, with plans to expand to 50 million litres. To this end, it will significantly reduce the import of these chemicals, conserving foreign exchange and supporting both Federal and State government backward integration programmes.
“This is a historic moment with the potential to redefine our nation’s economic trajectory,” Shettima declared.
He highlighted the need for expanding industrial capacity across the agricultural value chain, a feat achievable only through robust government policies and private sector commitment.
The vice president, who was represented by the minister of state for agriculture and food security in Nigeria, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, acknowledged Africa’s vast agricultural potential but lamented the continent’s low share of global manufacturing. “Nigeria has no excuse not to be at the forefront of reversing this reality,” he asserted. He called for an environment where local firms can thrive, innovate, and compete globally, reiterating the government’s commitment to removing barriers and supporting businesses like Springfield Agro.
Shettima underscored agriculture as a top priority for President Bola Tinubu, citing various government initiatives aimed at increasing farmers’ productivity and yields. He emphasised that the new agrochemical plant directly supports the government’s agenda to combat hunger and enhance national food security. He commended Springfield Agro for its milestone achievement and acknowledged its long-standing contribution to the agricultural sector.
Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, praised Springfield Agro Limited for its investment in the state, emphasising the potential benefits for Nigeria’s economy and food security. The governor, represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, highlighted the significance of the company’s projects, noting they represent a major stepforward in the state’s industrial development.
“These events demonstrate Ogun State’s success in fostering a business-friendly environment,” Salako-Oyedele stated, “and reflect the Kewalram Chanrai Group’s ongoing commitment to agriculture, healthcare, and sustainable development in Nigeria.” She added that the new facility will reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported agrochemicals, saving foreign exchange, boosting industrialisation, and strengthening national food security.
“In our state, agriculture is a critical component of our economic development strategy,” Salako-Oyedele affirmed. She outlined the government’s efforts to improve agricultural inputs, mechanisation, and extension services to drive higher productivity, reduce food costs, and achieve food security. She explained that projects such as the Springfield Agro chemical plant directly support these goals by empowering farmers to maximise yields, minimise post-harvest losses, and ensure a stable food supply chain.
The governor’s representative assured Springfield Agro and other investors of the state government’s dedication to improving the ease of doing business. She pledged continued support through infrastructure development, favourable policies, and incentives to encourage investments that drive economic growth and create a more inclusive society.
Chairman of Kewalram Chanrai Group, N.G. Chanrai, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for its support as he announced the launch of Springfield Agro’s new agrochemical plant. Chanrai stated that Springfield’s success in Nigeria has inspired the group to expand similar initiatives to other African countries. He emphasised that this investment demonstrates the company’s commitment to the Federal Government’s vision for industrialisation, focusing on import substitution and local production.
