In an effort to combat the escalating cost of food items in Lagos, the state government has committed to aiding approximately five thousand farmers with agricultural inputs, land for cultivation, and financial assistance where necessary.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, unveiled these initiatives during a series of strategic meetings with the leadership of the Mile 12 International Market and Farmers Association convened at the ministry’s conference room in Alausa, Ikeja.
The objective of the discussions was to create a conducive environment for farming, thereby regulating the prices at which traders sell food items to residents, making them more affordable.
Olusanya emphasized the government’s longstanding support for farmers, highlighting ongoing efforts to provide farm inputs, funds, and land allocation in areas such as Ito-Ikin in Epe and Badagry, where access to ample water resources is available.
Expressing satisfaction with the enthusiastic turnout and commitment displayed by farmers during the meetings, the commissioner reiterated that the ultimate goal was to reduce the prices of food items across the state.
Acknowledging farmers as the backbone of the nation’s food supply, Olusanya commended their dedication and identified promising farmlands along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, particularly in Iyana Iba.
Assuring prompt support from the Ministry in various regions of the state, Olusanya requested a comprehensive list of association members for effective coordination.
In response, Alhaji Shehu Usman Jubril, Chairman of the Mile 12 International Market, expressed gratitude for the government’s collaboration in enhancing food production.
Alhaji Issa Mohammed, a farmer and leader of the Hausa community in the Tejuosho area, lamented challenges faced by farmers, including eviction from lands they utilized for cultivation. He appealed for government intervention to secure their farming activities.
Abdullahi Abubakar, representing farmers in the Ojo axis, voiced confidence in the commissioner’s commitment to addressing their concerns, citing the potential for agricultural growth in Lagos if conducive conditions are provided.
Abubakar Abdullahi highlighted the need for consistent support from the state government, citing fluctuations in fertilizer prices and limited assistance received thus far.
