The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring food security and fulfilling its constitutional responsibility of feeding over 24 million residents despite the enormous challenges involved.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave this assurance in a message to the grand finale of this year’s World Food Day Celebration, held at the Police College, Ikeja.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Governor emphasized that ensuring food availability for residents requires constant innovation and robust partnerships with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
He disclosed that the state government is ready to support farmers with necessary inputs and infrastructure to boost food production across the metropolis.
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the impressive performance of Lagos farmers, noting that the theme of this year’s celebration, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” underscores the urgent need for collaboration to transform agricultural systems and promote healthy diets.
According to him, work is ongoing across various agricultural hubs under construction to ensure that each local government area and LCDA has a functional hub that will make farm produce available at affordable prices to residents.
On her part, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, stressed that agriculture remains pivotal to the survival of humanity, noting that the growth and development of any nation depend largely on the sector.
She added that since every other sector relies on agricultural products to thrive, all efforts must be directed toward supporting farmers, emphasizing that “no farmer, no nation.”
A member of the Board of Directors of the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), Mr. Yarub Al-Bharani, noted that the foundation has, over the last two decades, remained committed to empowering small-scale farmers for a better future.
He reaffirmed BATNF’s commitment to supporting rural communities across Nigeria, emphasizing that farmers remain the backbone of the nation’s economy.
According to him, over 300,000 farmers across the 36 states and the FCT have benefitted from various support initiatives, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on hunger reduction and sustainable agricultural development.
He urged Nigerians to patronize local farmers to boost socio-economic development in the country.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, appreciated all partners for their collaboration and contributions to the state’s agricultural success story.
He noted that agriculture extends beyond farming to the entire value chain that sustains stakeholders, adding that food prices are gradually reducing in Lagos due to the state’s partnership with the Mile 12 Market.
In his vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, assured that the government would sustain the initiative and encourage more residents to participate in the agricultural sector.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes and awards to outstanding contributors in the sector. Oluwaseun Evelyn Areo won a truck as the Most Beautiful Farmer in Lagos, while Farm Junction received the Best Agro Processor Award.
Erikprodo Poultry Association was named Best Farm Estate, Ajara Farm Settlement won Best Farm Settlement, Yaba LCDA emerged as Best LCDA in Agriculture, and Daddy Louis Tomato Growers Association received the Best Crop Champion Award.
