OSOGBO: Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared that Osun State will align with the Federal Government’s new halal economic strategy, describing the initiative as an opportunity to tap into the estimated $7.7 trillion global halal market.
Speaking during the National Economic Council meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Adeleke praised the initiative introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying it comes at the right time as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy and attract more investment.
According to the governor, Osun State will establish a halal economy committee that will adapt the federal framework into a state-level programme aimed at boosting economic activities and creating opportunities for residents.
Adeleke also called for the development of a subnational template that would guide states in implementing the policy effectively.
I commend President Bola Tinubu for this initiative. Osun will work on an implementation plan to benefit all residents and indigenes. Halal economy covers financing, dietary requirements, infrastructure and ethical conduct in business relations,” he said.
He stressed that the halal economy is not limited to religious considerations, noting that it spans multiple sectors and offers opportunities to people of different faiths.
The governor said the strategy has the capacity to expand and deepen the economy of Osun State because its applications extend across industries such as finance, food production, logistics and ethical business practices.
Earlier, Vice President Kashim Shettima unveiled the National Halal Economic Strategy, saying the programme emerged from extensive studies and consultations aimed at supporting President Tinubu’s drive to diversify exports, attract foreign direct investment and generate sustainable employment.
Shettima explained that the initiative was developed through collaboration with the Halal Products Development Company, a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund, and Dar Al Halal Group Nigeria.
He added that the project also enjoys technical support from international institutions, including the Islamic Development Bank and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa.
According to the Vice President, the strategy is designed to position Nigeria as a key player in the rapidly growing global halal economy while creating new channels for investment and economic growth
