By Mercy Omoike
The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to ensuring food security in spite of its geographical limitations.
The state made this known at the grand finale of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems event in commemoration of the 2025 World Food Day at the Police College Parade Ground on Thursday, in Ikeja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Food Day is an annual global event held annually on Oct. 16 to raise awareness about hunger, food insecurity, and the need for collective action to improve food systems worldwide.
In his keynote address, the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu represented by Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the State Government, vowed the continued commitment of the government to ensure food security.
“I am delighted to join you today on the occasion commemorating the Y2025 World Food Day.
“This significant day underscores the importance of our shared responsibility to strengthen the state’s food system and serves as a collective call to action against hunger and malnutrition.
“This year’s theme: “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” highlights the urgent need for collaboration among governments, the private sector, development organisations, and communities to transform agri-food systems, promote healthy diets, and safeguard our environment.
“For Lagos State, the challenge is unique. Despite being the smallest in landmass, Lagos is home to over 22 million people, making it the most densely populated state in Nigeria.
“Feeding such a vast population requires innovation, bold investments, and robust partnerships.
“Having recognised the importance of food security, this administration remains deeply committed to ensuring Lagos remains food secure despite its geographical limitations,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He also highlighted achievements in the government’s roadmap towards achieving a food secure Lagos, while collaborating with all relevant stakeholders in the sector.
“Our dedication is evident in the continuous provision of support for food production, infrastructure, and market systems designed to reduce high food prices and build a sustainable food reserve management structure.
“Agriculture remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s economic resilience—a sector that nurtures livelihoods, drives innovation, and sustains prosperity.
“In Lagos, we are redefining agriculture as a dynamic engine for growth, inclusion, and sustainability.
“As we commemorate World Food Day 2025, let us reaffirm our collective resolve to work hand in hand for better food systems and a better future for all,” Sanwo-Olu said.
In his goodwill message, an Executive Director at the British America Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), Mr Yarub Al-Bahrani, restated the foundation’s commitment in advancing agriculture and food security in the country.
“This year’s theme for the 2025 World Food Day: “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” echoes the mission of BATNF which, over the last two decades, has remained committed to empowering rural Nigeria and advocating the rights of smallholder farmers, laying the groundwork for a truly sustainable future.
“I am proud to reassure our unwavering commitment to this cause and our continued efforts to uplift rural communities across Nigeria.
“We firmly believe that the key to sustainable development lies in uplifting small holder farmers, the backbone of our food systems.
“Through targeted initiatives that deliver training, capacity building and financial support, we have profitably impacted over 300,000 farmers and reached more than 1.7 million beneficiaries, including women and youth all over the 36 states of the federation.
“Food security is not something we can do alone, but it’s a collaborative effort,” Al-Bahrani said.
Also, as part of the 2025 World Food Day celebration, the Lagos State Government celebrated the farmers.
Best Agro-processor of the year was awarded to Farm Junction, while Erikorodo Poultry Association was awarded the Best Farm Estate, Ajara Farm Settlement bagged the Best Farm Settlement in the state.
Also, the Lagos Island Local Government Area bagged the Best Livestock Champion and Apapa Local Government Area was awarded the Best Agriculture champion.
Yaba Local Community Development Area won the best local government in agriculture practice.
The Best Artisanal Champion went to Ejalonibu Fishermen Cooperative, while the Best Crop champion was won by Daddy Louis Tomatoes Growers Association Badagry. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
