The Lagos State Government has taken a major step toward boosting food security through the distribution of modern agricultural tools, inputs, and financial support to farmers operating in nine sites under the National Programme for Food Security in the State. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, said the intervention shows Lagos is committed to upgrading farming systems and helping farmers increase production and create better livelihoods.
She revealed this at the 2025 Farmers Field Day/Appreciation Day held at the Lagos State Agric Cooperative Hall in Oko-Oba. The event carried the theme “Transitioning from Simple Tools to Mechanised Equipment.” Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Emmanuel Audu, Olusanya explained that Lagos, with a population of over 24 million, must adopt modern farming systems to meet its rising food needs.
“Today’s programme demonstrates the shift in agriculture from simple handheld tools to mechanised farming, which is the pathway to improved agricultural productivity in Lagos State,” she said. She explained that farmers across NPFS sites are receiving mini-tractors, power tillers, solar-powered sprayers, fish-smoking kilns, poultry feed, fish feed, deep freezers for artisanal fish processors and other needed tools to ensure better yields.
“In addition to the equipment, beneficiaries are also receiving cash grants to support the purchase of agrochemicals and other vital inputs. The intervention will benefit about 2,000 farmers to boost food production and improve livelihoods in farming communities,” she stated. She encouraged beneficiaries to use the items responsibly, adding that the distribution signals the beginning of sustained government backing for farmers in Lagos.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Lagos State House Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Olotu Emmanuel, represented by Committee Secretary, Mr Babatunde Olajide, assured of legislative support for agriculture. “The Chairman and the entire committee are committed to providing the legislative backing needed to sustain and expand this initiative,” he said.
The Coordinating Director of the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority, Mrs Aderonke Toju-Tubi, gave an overview of the NPFS, describing it as a federal initiative launched in 2002 and adopted by Lagos in 2011 to support vulnerable farmers and improve food supply. She noted that the programme initially began with three sites in Lagos but has now grown to 10 because of its success and impact.
She further stated that the core aim of the intervention is to help farmers move from manual operations to mechanised practices that will push productivity and income levels. She urged beneficiaries to protect the items given and use them for maximum output within their communities.
