By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, says the combination of right strategies, investments, and partnerships will enable Nigeria harness its competitive advantage and present a bright agricultural future.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms Abisola Olusanya, made the assertion at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Agro Fair and Symposium on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event had as its theme, “Nigeria Food Production in Global Space: Leveraging Our Competitive Advantage”.

The governor said that agriculture had always been the backbone of the country’s economy, hence the need to explore new frontiers in food production using the vast potentials within Nigeria’s borders.

He said that Nigeria, blessed with abundant natural resources, a favorable climate, and a hardworking population, was uniquely positioned to feed the growing population and be a major player in the global food market.

The governor, however, stressed that realising the country’s potential required more than just acknowledging its resources.

“It demands a strategic approach that maximises our competitive advantages and addresses the challenges that have historically impeded our progress.

“We must harness our competitive advantage in the global food production space.

“It requires that we take ownership of our diverse agricultural ecosystems that offer the opportunity to produce a wide range of crops and livestock and target niche markets globally.

“We must intentionally deploy our large and growing workforce by investing in education and training, particularly in modern agricultural techniques and agribusiness.

“We should also transform this workforce into a formidable asset that supports a thriving agro-economy ” he said.

The governor also revealed that Lagos state had implemented a series of strategies and innovations aimed at enhancing its contribution to Nigeria’s food production on a global scale, leveraging the country’s competitive advantages.

These initiatives, he said, were designed to position Lagos as a key player in the global agricultural market, ensuring that Nigeria capitalises on its natural resources, strategic location, and growing population.

“As we seek to position Nigeria as a global leader in food production, collaboration between government, private sector, and international partners will be vital.

“Government, both state and federal, are committed to creating an enabling environment that encourages investment, fosters innovation, and supports sustainable agricultural practices.

“But we cannot do it alone. The private sector must lead the way in driving innovation, adopting best practices, and expanding market reach,” he said.

Mr Gabriel Idahosa, President, LCCI, said that Nigeria was at crossroads, facing unprecedented challenges in its food systems in the face of unique opportunities that could redefine its position in the global agricultural landscape.

He said that Nigeria must not ignore the urgent food crisis it was facing with food inflation, and skyrocketing number of food-insecure Nigerians, facing acute hunger.

The LCCI president, while commending import waivers given for some food imports, said that we must be deliberate in building the capacity of local food producers to meet the demands of Nigerians.

Idahosa said that Nigeria must become more diligent in its fiscal policy direction while initiating specially targeted programmes for food production.

“We must invest in agricultural research to boost our output through improved seedlings, disease prevention, and the deployment of modern technology for agricultural mechanisation.

“The National Food Security Council must be expanded to include key stakeholders at the federal and state levels, while an urgent, coordinated hunger response involving public, private, and civil society sectors is needed.

“Our food security and production challenges are daunting, yet our competitive advantages provide a solid foundation to build a resilient and globally competitive agricultural sector ,” he said.

Chairman, LCCI Agro-Allied Symposium 2024, Mr Kola Aderibigbe, said that Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem needed to address global food security challenges and transform agrifood through continued innovation, collaboration, and strategic implementation.

Aderibigbe noted the need to cure Nigeria from the mentality of consumption society to sustainable food production which requires collective efforts.

According to him, Nigeria does not lack the resources to develop from within.

He said that from natural to human resources, the country stood out with abundant endowments that beg for effective and efficient utilisations.

He added that Nigeria needed to make agriculture attractive to the youth by continually getting them engaged positively and developing their interest in agri business through digitalisation, creative art, security and funding.

“It is the young population that can assist to drive the transformational change required to take preeminence top position in Nigeria food production in global space.

“Government must assist in improving the nation security architecture to promote security of farmers, promote innovation, enhance farmers’ access to high-quality seeds to support sustainable agriculture.

“Agriculture ecosystems as a new economy frontier in Nigeria has the potential to revolutionise Nigeria economy from healthcare, environmental sustainability, food production and security, financial sustainability, education.

“This can be a game changer and transformer from obscurity to abundance and transform Nigeria in to an enviable space globally,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

By Mercy Omoike

The Lagos State Government says it will begin the Phase II of its ‘Ounje Eko’ Food Discount Market on Sept. 1.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, disclosed this during a news conference on Wednesday in Alausa.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that in March, the state government implemented Phase I of the Ounje Eko Food Discount Market across its 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

The temporary markets, which also took place at the Alausa, Secretariat and Lekki Phase I, operated on Sundays to provide selected food items at a 25 per cent discount.

Residents across Lagos enjoyed 25 per cent discount on a variety of food items, including rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, pepper and onions.

The commissioner said in a bid to further reduce the impact of high prices, the governor had approved commencement of Phase II of the ‘Ounje Eko’ market.

“On behalf of the Lagos state government, we announce the commencement of the ‘Ounje Eko’ Food Discount Market Phase II, an initiative aimed at alleviating the impact of rising food prices on our citizens.

“This programme aligns with Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to supporting Lagos residents through innovative and impactful initiatives.

“The success and wide acclaim of the first phase of the project have shown us the substantial impact such initiatives can have on improving the lives of our citizens.

“In response to numerous requests from the public, the governor has decided to expand and enhance this initiative,” the commissioner said.

Olusanya noted that the programme became more pertinent with food inflation reaching 40.9 per cent, placing the price of staple food items beyond the reach of many households, and its attendant social implications.

“This second phase will commence on Sept. 1, 2024 and will run for 8 weeks across 64 locations, including the 57 LGAs/LCDAs, Alausa Secretariat, Lekki Phase 1, University of Lagos (UNILAG), and Lagos State University (LASU).

“It will also take place at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

“The markets will operate from 10:00a.m. to 5:00pm. Markets at the Alausa Secretariat and the institutions, such as UNILAG, LASU, LASUSTECH, LASUED, and LASUTH, will take place on Fridays.

“However, the market for Mushin LGA will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Fresh Food Hub in Idi-Oro.

“The food items available at the markets will include a maximum cap purchasable of 5kg each for rice, beans, and garri, two loaves of bread, one crate of eggs, 2kg of tomatoes, and 1kg each for Pepper and onion per individual.

“It is important to note that the prices of these food items have increased over the past few months, varying from one location to another,” Olusanya said.

She also promised that the markets would operate seamlessly in collaboration with the necessary agencies.

“To ensure smooth operations, each market will be managed by a market leader, supported by eight ministry staff, four representatives of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos chapter.

“There will also be two representatives from the LGAs/LCDAs, typically the Head of Department for Agriculture and the supervisor. We will also receive support from volunteers and local government chairmen.

“In collaboration with Payment Service Providers such as Money Master PSB by GLO, MoMo PSB by MTN, Smartcash PSB by Airtel, Palmpay, Hydrogen by Access Bank, and Traction, all transactions will be digitalised.

“No cash transactions will occur at any market location, enhancing accountability and convenience. For any transaction issues, such as declined but debited transactions, citizens are advised to contact their respective banks.

“We have made provisions to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience at all market locations. Adequate seating, canopies, and convenience facilities will be available.

“For any issues or complaints, citizens should approach the market leader, who will be wearing a branded red reflective jacket, or other staff officials in branded lemon reflective jackets.

“To guarantee safety and orderliness, we are engaging security and support personnel, including the Mobile Police, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC).

“The Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) for traffic management, Civil Defense will also be represented and the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) for medical emergencies.

“Also, Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) for cleanliness during and after the market hours,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

By Toba Ajayi

The Rector of the Kwara Polytechnic, Dr Abdul Jimoh-Muhammed, has called on tertiary institutions in the country to invest in commercial farming on their campuses.

Jimoh-Muhammed, who made the call in Ilorin on Saturday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said tertiary institutions should prioritise food production and not restrict themselves to academic research alone.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  reports that the Kwara polytechnic recently harvested 25 tonnes of maize from its farm, which the rector said was part of ensuring food security in the country.

Jimoh-Muhammed said that the farming was part of his resolve to enshrine the culture of “growing what you eat and eating what you grow” for economic benefits of the nation.

He disclosed that the polytechnic has commenced harvesting of maize and other produce on their commercial farm.

He said that the polytechnic have spent almost N13 million on maize and cassava plantation in their first farming season.

“We spent about N10m for clearing of the land and another N3m was used in purchase of the seedlings and cassava stems.

“We have been experiencing encroachment on the polytechnic land and we put our heads together to utilise the vacant land to practice commercial farming.

” That is the reason I am urging other institutions to utilise their land and not just leave it for decoration. Farm on it and produce food for the public,” he said.

The rector assured that the farm produce would be reinvested to the farm as well as to increase Internally Generated Revenue for the polytechnic.

He said part of the produce would be used by the Department of Food Science Technology to bring out other value additions attached to maize, cassava and other produce of the farm.

He said that the polytechnic involved the students to practice on the farm as a way of practical training.

He said students of the Department of Agricultural Technology, Students of Agric Engineering & Bio Environmental Engineering were instrumental to the success of the farming.

He said the School Management and the Committee on Agricultural Purposes are planning to cultivate another 20 hectares of land next season as they plan to practice soya beans among other crops.

Muhammed also said the institution would practice animal husbandry and poultry farm in the near future.

“We want to practice irrigation farming system. We need a source of water which is lacking in our area. We want government to support us in this aspect,” he said.

He also seek for a multi purpose engine power seed planter, fertiliser broadcaster, and weeding machine to ease farming practice on the campus.

On security, the Rector said the security personnel of the Polythecnic collaborated with other security agencies to ensure safety on the farm at all times.

The Director of Institute of Technology, Mrs Ruth Bayeri, identified the relocation of the encroachers on the land as major challenge, which was later resolved with dialogue.

Bayeri, who doubles as Chairman of the farming committee, said the clearing started in February while the actual planting started in April.

She described the initiative as a profiting one which would be continuous, adding that Soya beans planting would commence after the raining season.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by AbdulFatai Beki/Ismail Abdulaziz

By Salisu Sani-Idris

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising the agricultural sector and livestock industry.

Tinubu, represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima gave the assurance at the launch of the Yobe Agricultural Empowerment Programme in Damaturu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative, which includes the provision of agricultural machinery and implements, is part of a broader national strategy to revolutionise Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The president said the programme was at the heart of his administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance food security, create jobs, and diversify Nigeria’s economy through agriculture.

Tinubu stressed the critical role of agriculture in national development and security, saying, “food is the heart of security in every society.

“It is the foundation upon which we build our health, our well-being, and our economic stability.

“There’s no way we are going to achieve our grand goals as a government, whether at the state or national level, until we support and empower our farmers,” he added.

Tinubu added that apart from boosting agricultural outputs, the initiative also aims to engage more Nigerians in the nation’s economic life.

He said the recently approved Ministry of Livestock Development intends to improve livestock production, change the destiny and narratives of the nation’s livestock production.

“Each of us in this gathering must come to terms with the fact that the era of relying on rain-fed agriculture is gone. These machines are here to ease our practice of irrigation farming.”

He announced the approval of the Yobe’s request for additional resources to support its agricultural ambitions.

”These include mini-rigs for tube wells, solar water pumps, agro-chemicals, power tillers, more fertilisers, and other farm implements to complement your irrigation scheme,” the president promised.

Tinubu assured the audience that the government was taking drastic measures to address security challenges to make farmlands safe and accessible in every state of the federation.

He commended Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe’s achievements, particularly in agricultural investments, emphasising the potential for agricultural mechanisation in the state.

Earlier, Buni reaffirmed the state’s sustained support for the Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging the challenges faced by Yobe, particularly in the agricultural sector.

He said, “In spite of all the challenges, agriculture remains the major preoccupation of our people.

”With the improvement in security across the state, farmlands are now accessible in almost all the local government areas.”

Buni listed several government initiatives to revitalise agriculture, including the conduct of an agricultural summit.

Others were the constitution of a steering committee on the revitalisation of agriculture and partnerships with organisations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

He added that the state government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, had established Livestock Development Centres to address farmer-herdsmen clashes, boost meat and dairy production.

Buni also disclosed the revival of the 2,000-hectare Lava Irrigation Scheme and the establishment of four Sesame Seeds processing factories across the state.

He said that: “This state visit is no doubt a significant milestone as we launch the agricultural empowerment programme.

” The items distributed include 100 Zoom Lion Tractors, 10 IMC Double Cabin 4-wheel drive vehicles for extension service supervision and 200 motorcycles for extension workers.

” Others are 300 sets of ox-drawn ploughs, 5,349 small ruminants (goats), 1,349 hand-push planters and 889 hand-push plough machines.

”The rest were 590 hand-push tiller machines, 4,202 solar-powered irrigation water pumps, improved assorted seeds, and 72,000 bags of fertilizer.”

Also, the Emir of Damaturu, Shehu Umar-El-Kanemi, thanked Tinubu for his tremendous support to progress and development of the state.

The royal father also appreciated the achievements so far recorded by Tinubu’s administration and its plans to move the country forward for the benefits of all Nigerians.

He said: ” To us today is a day of pride, a day of joy and a blessing to us to have His Excellency, the Vice-President Shettima representing His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu to launch agriculture in empowerment programme Yobe.

” And interestingly enough, Vice- President Shettima is an expert on agriculture and also the son of the soil.”(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation Bello Goronyo says the Federal Government is in collaboration with EGTA Investment Ltd., a Nigerian company, to boost food production.

He said this in Abuja when he received the outgoing Egyptian Defence Attaché, Staff Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Ibrahim, the incoming Egyptian Defence Attaché, Staff Col. Muhammad Ibrahim.

Goronyo also met with the Group Managing Director of EGTA Investment Ltd., Dr Bashir Ibrahim, among others, in his office.

The minister said that the collaboration would bolster food production in the country through irrigated agriculture and dam facilities across the nation.

“Discussions centered around collaborative initiatives aimed at advancing President Bola Tinubu’s food security agenda through enhanced irrigation and dam infrastructure,” he said.

Goronyo also emphasised the significant opportunities within the irrigated value chain to boost food production, foster job creation and stimulate economic growth.

He advised that the memorandum of understanding being developed for the collaboration should be vetted by relevant legal authorities to ensure land suitability and the absence of encumbrances that could impede progress.

EGTA Investment Ltd. Group Managing Director Bashir Ibrahim underscored the importance of leveraging simple and cost-effective irrigation techniques to empower smallholder farmers.

Similarly, Mrs. Oyeronke Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, explained the need for tailored irrigation methods, considering operational costs and ensuring farmer training for sustainable project outcomes.

She highlighted the crucial roles of Water Users Associations and the TRIMING Project in enhancing irrigation practices among farmers.

Calling for support for the partnership, Mr Ali Dallah, Director of Dams and Reservoirs at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, noted that national dam infrastructure would play a crucial role in supporting greenfield projects, irrigation schemes, and development across the country.

Alhaji Aminu Muhammed, President, Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, was also in attendance during the visit.

The meeting highlighted a shared commitment to advancing collaborative efforts that will contribute significantly to the county’s agricultural sector and overall economic development.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kayode Olaitan