In a historic move to deepen international cooperation and drive agricultural growth, Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria, and the City of Dover, Delaware, United States, have formalized a bilateral partnership aimed at expanding food production, research, and youth agro-entrepreneurship.
The landmark agreement was sealed on Monday, November 24, 2025, during an Official Award Presentation and Cultural Exchange Ceremony hosted at the Dover Legislative Chambers. Ambassador Adesina ’Lanre Ogunsola, FCPA, Executive Chairman of Obafemi Owode Local Government, led the Nigerian delegation and addressed the council in a plenary session attended by Mayor Robin R. Christiansen, members of the Dover Legislative Council, and dignitaries from both nations.
Amb. Ogunsola expressed profound delight at the warm reception and the continued strengthening of relations between the two communities. He described the event as “more than an award ceremony,” calling it “a celebration of shared values, leadership, and partnership that transcends geography.”
Awards Symbolizing Growing Cooperation
During the ceremony, Amb. Ogunsola received the Prestigious Leadership Award from Mayor Christiansen, as well as the Distinguished Service and Partnership Award from Ms. Jody R. Simundza. The recognitions, he noted, symbolized mutual respect and admiration for service, humility, and commitment to community development.
He recalled a memorable moment from his earlier visit on April 22, 2025, when Mayor Christiansen invited him to sit on the Mayor’s chair — a gesture he described as a powerful symbol of trust, unity, and diplomatic friendship.
“Leadership is not about position but service,” he said. “That moment captured the true essence of our partnership.”
Ten Hectares Allocated for Joint Agricultural Programs
One of the major highlights of the visit was the announcement that Obafemi Owode Local Government has approved ten hectares of land for a joint agricultural development project with the City of Dover. The initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, emphasizing collaboration, bilateral trade, and youth development.
The allocated land will support:
- Joint agricultural research
- Mechanized farming projects
- Youth agro-entrepreneurship programs
- Knowledge exchange between farmers, agronomists, and policymakers
Amb. Ogunsola emphasized that the partnership aims to boost food production and strengthen local economies in both communities.
He also highlighted the strategic position and economic strength of Obafemi Owode Local Government, describing it as “a vibrant hub of agriculture, trade, and industry,” situated between Lagos—the commercial capital of Nigeria—and Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. He noted that the local government had recently been honored by the Nigerian National Merit Award as the Best Local Government in Ogun State and the third best in Nigeria.
Dover Commits to Full Implementation
In his welcome speech, Mayor Robin R. Christiansen praised Amb. Ogunsola’s dedication to community service and international cooperation. He reaffirmed Dover’s commitment to the agricultural partnership, assuring that the City Council and the Delaware government will provide the necessary funding and support.
He attributed Dover’s successes to “true team effort” involving elected officials, hardworking staff, and supportive residents, adding that the city remains committed to fostering global friendships such as the one with Obafemi Owode.
Mayor Christiansen also acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians serving in Delaware—including Dr. Charles Adejoro, Special Assistant on International Relations—for strengthening diplomatic ties.
A Delegation of Leaders
Amb. Ogunsola was accompanied by a delegation that included Hon. Adekunke Abdulateef, Chief Whip and Councillor representing Owode Ward, alongside other associates and supporters.
