Lagos: The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring food security despite its geographical limitations. This announcement was made during 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 in Ikeja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, World Food Day is an annual global event held on October 16 to raise awareness about hunger, food insecurity, and the need for collective action to improve food systems worldwide. In his keynote address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to food security.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the challenges faced by Lagos due to its small landmass but large population of over 22 million people. He stressed the importance of innovation, investments, and partnerships to feed the state’s vast population. The government remains focused on ensuring food security through support for food production, infrastructure, and market systems.
The governor also outlined the administration’s achievements in its roadmap toward a food-secure Lagos, emphasizing agriculture as a key component of Nigeria’s economic resilience. He urged collective efforts in transforming agri-food systems and promoting healthy diets.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Yarub Al-Bahrani, Executive Director at the British America Tobacco Nigeria Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to advancing agriculture and food security in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of empowering rural communities and smallholder farmers through targeted initiatives, highlighting the impact on over 300,000 farmers and 1.7 million beneficiaries across the country.
As part of the 2025 World Food Day celebration, the Lagos State Government recognized outstanding contributions to agriculture. Awards were given to Farm Junction for Best Agro-processor, Erikorodo Poultry Association for Best Farm Estate, and Ajara Farm Settlement for Best Farm Settlement. Other awards included Best Livestock Champion to Lagos Island Local Government Area, Best Agriculture Champion to Apapa Local Government Area, and Best Local Government in Agriculture Practice to Yaba Local Community Development Area. Ejalonibu Fishermen Cooperative and Daddy Louis Tomatoes Growers Association Badagry received accolades for Best Artisanal Champion and Best Crop Champion, respectively.