…as Ministry of Agriculture Promotes Female-Led Agribusiness
The Farm Junction Foundation, in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, has unveiled plans to host the maiden edition of The Most Beautiful Farmer (TMBF) project in Lagos, with the winner set to drive away in a truck and farming tools.
The project aims to celebrate the beauty of agriculture and spotlight the strength and resilience of women who play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa-Secretariat, Ikeja, the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, described the initiative as a strategic effort to promote food security, boost food production, and recognize the contribution of female farmers.
“Female farmers not only contribute to trade but also nurture the land that feeds us all. This initiative is designed to empower them with tools, resources, and recognition they rightfully deserve,” she said.
Olusanya emphasized that the Most Beautiful Farmer project is more than a competition—it’s a movement to transform agriculture into an inclusive, attractive, and sustainable career path.
She also praised the partnership with the Farm Junction Foundation, describing it as a blessing that aligns with the state’s food security goals.
Speaking on behalf of the Farm Junction Foundation, project coordinator Dumebi Oluwole said the MBF initiative is the Foundation’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project aimed at empowering female farmers in Lagos, who are often marginalized in terms of support and representation in the agricultural value chain.
She noted that the definition of “beauty” in this context goes beyond physical appearance. “It’s about excellence in farming, hard work, resilience, and the ability to show uniqueness across the agricultural value chain,” she explained.
Oluwole added that the project will equip women with technical, marketing, and distribution skills, helping them upscale their agribusinesses and navigate the competitive sector.
The theme of this year’s event, “Making Farming Cool”, aims to shift perceptions of agriculture by portraying it as a modern, innovative, and aspirational career choice.
The project targets smallholder female farmers aged 21 and above, who are residents of Lagos and have valid LASRRA ID cards.
Screening will take place at Demiller Industry from September 10 to 17. The main event is scheduled for October 2–10 at the Mushin Food Hub, while the grand finale and award presentation will be held on October 16 at the Police College, Ikeja—coinciding with World Food Day.
The overall winner will go home with a truck and farming tools, while the first runner-up will receive seeds worth ₦2 million and farming tools. The second runner-up will be awarded ₦1 million worth of farming tools.
