The Lagos State Agricultural Input Supply Authority (LAISA) has trained over 500 farmers and fishermen in the Ikorodu Division. The one-day intensive capacity-building session, held on Tuesday at the Ikorodu Local Government premises, focused on introducing participants to modern farming and fishing methods tailored to their specific needs.
The event, themed “Harvesting Success: Innovative Solutions for Lagos Farmers,” marked a new phase in the state’s agricultural development agenda. It brought together farmers, government officials, and industry experts to exchange knowledge and build strategies that can improve productivity and sustainability in Lagos agriculture.
Speaking at the forum, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, emphasized that food security goes beyond the agricultural sector. She noted that it is closely connected to economic stability, public health, and urban resilience. Ms. Olusanya, represented by Mrs. Aramide Gansalo, the Director of Agribusiness in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, reiterated the government’s ongoing support for local producers and its commitment to improving food systems across the state.
“As a Government, we recognize that the journey to self-sufficiency starts with the right foundation. That foundation is quality inputs,” Ms. Olusanya said. “For our farmers, access to certified, high-yield seeds, appropriate fertilizers, and modern implements is non-negotiable for maximizing the meager resources available in our state. And that is where LAISA comes in.”
Mrs. Olufolake Oluyemi, the General Manager of LAISA, described the event as more than a training session. She said it served as a direct engagement platform where the agency could better understand the distinct challenges faced by farmers across different regions of Lagos.
“We recognize that the challenges faced by farmers in Ikorodu are unique compared to those in Badagry or Epe,” Mrs. Oluyemi stated. “Therefore, the era of LAISA assuming it knows your needs is over. This forum is designed as both a capacity-building session and a platform for us to listen, learn, and co-create innovative solutions.”
Farmers and fishermen present at the event expressed appreciation to the state government and LAISA for their continuous support. The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Femi Oke, commended the initiative and urged participants to apply the knowledge gained during the session to enhance productivity.
The forum was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chairman of Ikorodu North Local Government, Hon. Abdul Lateef Ladega; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Mr. Emmanuel Audu; and the Babaloja General of Ikorodu, Alhaji Folorunsho Alogba.