In a resolute commitment to achieving 40% food self-sufficiency by 2025, the Lagos State government is diligently implementing the five-year agricultural and food systems roadmap. Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, expressed this dedication during the Lagos Food Systems Stakeholders’ Breakfast Meeting, outlining key projects and initiatives set forth by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the quest for a sustainable and prosperous future.
Key Roadmap Initiatives Unveiled
Launched in 2021, the five-year agricultural food systems roadmap encompasses diverse projects aimed at bolstering food security and sustainable agriculture. Commissioner Olusanya emphasized the imminent activation of eight pivotal projects, including the Central Logistics Hub, Lagos Aquaculture Centre of Excellence (LACE), capacity building for horticulture stakeholders, and full operations for the Lagos Food Production Centres.
Other projects in the spotlight include state-wide intervention execution, Green Wall Initiative, the establishment of the Agricultural Value Chains Enterprise Activation Programme, Agri-thon, Lagos Cares, Lagos Entrepreneurship Programme, Lagos Agric Scholars Programme, Lagos Agrinnovation Clusters, and the Food Value Chains’ Destination.
Rice Paddy Production Expansion: A Collaborative Effort
Addressing the growing rice consumption in Lagos, Commissioner Olusanya unveiled plans to increase rice paddy production through collaboration with sister states. A notable initiative involves partnering with states like Niger and Kebbi on land bank collaboration. This collaborative effort is part of the state’s broader strategy to meet the increasing demand for rice paddy sustainably.
In discussing the projects to be undertaken, the commissioner highlighted the significance of key ventures, including the Lagos Rice Mill, the Central Logistics Hub, the Red Meat Initiative, the Lagos Feedlot System, and the Butchers’ Academy.
Lagos Feedlot System: Ensuring Sustainable Meat Production
In response to the need for sustainable red meat production, Lagos introduces the Lagos Feedlot System. This innovative approach includes the establishment of the Butchers’ Academy and the creation of a last-mile meat shop. These initiatives aim to ensure a steady supply of high-quality meat, aligning with modern practices that prioritize animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and the production of safe and nutritious meat for the growing population.
Financial Requirements and Collaborations
Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, emphasized the financial aspect of these ambitious plans. He stated that the state government would require N50 billion to produce 100,000 tonnes of rice paddy in 2024. Dr. Fashola highlighted the achievements of the Imota Rice Mill in 2023, producing 15,000 tonnes of rice paddy, and outlined the financial implications and collaborative efforts needed to meet the 2024 target.
Stakeholders’ Role in Agricultural Development
Acknowledging the collaborative nature of the agricultural sector, Emmanuel Olotu, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, urged stakeholders to play a pivotal role in improving agricultural production in 2024. He commended the Ministry of Agriculture for fostering a platform that allows collective sharing of goals and projects for the year, emphasizing the importance of resilient and efficient agricultural systems.
Civil Servants and Operation Feed the Nation
Head of Civil Service, Olabode Agoro, announced the re-introduction of Operation Feed the Nation, encouraging civil servants to actively participate in agriculture. Mr. Agoro highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting civil servants engaged in agriculture, contributing to the overall success of the initiative.
Budget Increase Reflecting Agricultural Importance
Mosopefolu George, the State Commissioner for Economy, Planning, and Budget, acknowledged the increased budget allocation to agriculture. He underscored the critical role of the food chain and agriculture system in the state’s economic framework, praising the Ministry of Agriculture for its commendable efforts in areas such as rice mills, food, and logistics hubs.
As Lagos unfolds its comprehensive roadmap for agricultural prosperity, the collaborative spirit, financial commitment, and active participation of stakeholders, including civil servants, are pivotal to realizing Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision for a food-secure and sustainable Lagos. The journey ahead involves strategic partnerships, innovation, and a collective effort to transform the agricultural landscape and ensure a prosperous future for all Lagosians.
