The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to agricultural education, innovation, and youth inclusiveness in the agricultural value chain through the Lagos Agricultural Scholars’ Quiz Competition, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems. The event, held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together bright students from public secondary schools across the State to showcase their knowledge and passion for agriculture.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, described the competition as a strategic platform for nurturing the next generation of agricultural thinkers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will drive food security and sustainable development in Lagos State. She explained that the initiative reflects the State Government’s continuous investment in education and human capacity as vital components of agricultural transformation.
Ms. Olusanya noted that the Lagos Agricultural Scholars’ Quiz Competition was designed to promote agricultural awareness, encourage academic excellence, and inspire young people to explore the numerous opportunities within the agricultural value chain. According to her, the competition seeks to stimulate students’ interest in agriculture, reinforce its importance in national development, and encourage the adoption of modern technologies and sustainable practices.
She stated that the Lagos Agricultural Scholars’ Quiz Competition is not just a contest but an investment in the future of the State and the nation. “By inspiring young people to explore the vast opportunities in agriculture, we are preparing a new generation of thinkers, scientists, and entrepreneurs who will drive food security and sustainable development,” she said.
The Commissioner added that participants were tested in key areas such as Crop Production, Animal Science, Fisheries, Soil Science, Agribusiness, and Agro-technology, reflecting the diversity and richness of the agricultural sector and the exciting prospects it offers for innovation and enterprise.
Earlier in his address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, commended teachers and students from various schools across the State for their enthusiasm and participation in the Lagos Agricultural Scholars’ Quiz Competition. He described the event as a unique platform that continually showcases the brilliance, creativity, and growing knowledge of young students in agriculture. “The Ministry looks forward to the competition every year as an opportunity to discover new talents and assess the progress made in strengthening agricultural education in Lagos State,” he added.
Dr. Fashola encouraged students to take pride in learning about agriculture, emphasising that there is dignity in understanding and practising it. He stated that one does not have to be a professional farmer to contribute to agricultural growth, as everyone can engage in small-scale efforts such as maintaining a home garden or cultivating crops around their schools or residences. “Agriculture is not just a profession; it is a way of life. Everyone can grow something, no matter how little,” he said. He explained that promoting small-scale agricultural practices among individuals and households can help reduce pressure on the food system while enhancing food availability across the State.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, commended the students for their outstanding performances and intellectual brilliance during the competition. He described the Lagos Agricultural Scholars’ Quiz as a testament to the State Government’s unwavering commitment to developing young minds and promoting knowledge-driven growth in the agricultural sector.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the State’s strategic vision of positioning agriculture as a viable tool for youth empowerment, food security, and sustainable economic development. Mr. Audu stated that the competition was not merely an academic exercise but a platform to ignite curiosity, creativity, and innovation among young people. He stressed that by investing in the intellectual and practical capacities of students, the State is laying a solid foundation for a future where agriculture becomes a career of choice and a catalyst for technological advancement.
“What we are witnessing today is the future of Lagos agriculture, young people who are inquisitive, innovative, and ready to redefine the sector through modern practices and smart solutions,” he said. He applauded the dedication of teachers, school administrators, and other stakeholders who continuously support the Ministry’s educational initiatives.
He encouraged the students to sustain their interest in agriculture beyond the classroom, assuring them that the Ministry will continue to create enabling platforms for their growth and exposure. He reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government remains committed to building a resilient agricultural system driven by knowledge, innovation, and the energy of its young population.
A total of 28 secondary schools across the State participated in the Quiz Competition, showcasing their knowledge, confidence, and passion for agriculture. The event served as a clear demonstration of the State’s commitment to developing future agricultural leaders and strengthening the role of young people in achieving food security, agribusiness development, and sustainable economic growth in Lagos State.