The Lagos government has reaffirmed its commitment to incentivising farming activities to enhance food production and achieve at least 40 per cent of the state’s food sufficiency.
Abisola Olusanya, the Commissioner for Agriculture, announced this during a stakeholders’ breakfast meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture in Alausa.
Olusanya highlighted the key elements of the five-year Agricultural and Food Systems Roadmap Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu launched in 2021.
She said the roadmap focuses on providing funds for agricultural service providers, improving rice paddy production, and collaborating on land banks with sister states.
The Commissioner attributed positive changes in the agricultural sector to the roadmap’s implementation, emphasising the importance of food security for the socio-economic development of any nation.
She also discussed the Lagos red meat initiative, stating the state’s interest in the value chain due to its high consumption of red meat compared to other states in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
Addressing the issue of open cattle grazing, Olusanya emphasised the urgent need to adopt a restricted grazing system and transition to the ranching system.
She highlighted the dependency on cattle from other parts of the country, stressing the importance of closing the deficit through sustainable practices.
Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, provided insights into the operations of the Lagos rice mill in Imota.
He revealed plans to increase paddy production to 100,000 tonnes in 2024, emphasising the need for collaboration with the private sector.
Fashola expressed the ultimate goal of supplying 40 per cent of the state’s food needs, including rice, to ensure food security.
He said the Lagos State Government aims to create an enabling environment for farmers by providing incentives, addressing challenges, and implementing strategic initiatives outlined in the roadmap.
“With that, we can be rest assured that we are well covered whatever happens. That is the goal, that is the objective, that is what we are working towards, and we will ensure we get there,” he added.
