LAGOS GOVT URGES RESIDENTS TO EMBRACE URBAN FARMING FOR FOOD SUSTAINABILITY
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The Lagos State Government has urged residents across the State to embrace urban farming initiatives as a strategic approach to improving food security and sustainability in Lagos.
This call was made during a one-day Stakeholders’ Workshop on Urban Agriculture held at the Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro, Mushin. Organized by the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA) to sensitize Heads of Agriculture Units from the 57 Local Government
and Local Council Development Areas, as well as Environmental Health Officers, on the critical role of urban agriculture in ensuring sustainable food systems.
Speaking at the event, the Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, stated that the purpose of the program was to enlighten participants on their pivotal role in mobilizing communities, advocating for urban agricultural land
use, and promoting grassroots awareness on food sustainability.
Represented by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Rasheed Macaulay, the Commissioner emphasized the need to begin the sensitization process with the Heads of Agric Units at the local government level to ensure that proper education and technical support are cascaded
effectively to the grassroots.
“Integrating agriculture into our urban landscapes reduces dependence on external food sources, lowers transportation costs, and improves access to fresh, nutritious produce. The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems and its agencies,
is fully committed to this vision. We are formulating enabling policies, strengthening extension services, encouraging innovation, and building partnerships with local councils to scale up urban farming across the state,” she said.
Ms. Olusanya further stressed that urban agriculture must move beyond pilot projects and become embedded in schools, homes, markets, and faith-based institutions.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Program Manager of the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA), Mr. Alade Aliru, highlighted the importance of growing food closer to where it is consumed. He explained that this approach reduces reliance on long-distance
transportation while promoting greener, healthier cities and encouraging wholesome consumption.
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Mr Aliru noted that the workshop was designed to educate stakeholders on the benefits, opportunities, and practical strategies for implementing urban agriculture within their respective communities.
Through this initiative, we aim to deepen awareness and inspire action on how urban spaces, no matter how small, can be transformed into productive agricultural zones. From backyard gardens to vertical farms and container planting, urban agriculture is fast becoming
a vital component of our food ecosystem,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Emmanuel Fatai Audu, represented by the Director of Fisheries, Mrs. Daisi Agarrey, emphasized that rapid urbanization continues to exert pressure on land, infrastructure, and food systems.
He said cultivating food within urban and peri-urban areas presents a strategic solution to these challenges.
“Urban farming is no longer just an option; it is a necessity. It goes beyond planting crops – it’s about cultivating healthier communities, greener environments, and building more resilient livelihoods,” he stated.
The workshop featured three technical sessions focused on integrating crop production, urban livestock farming, and profitable urban fish farming. Participants commended the initiative, describing it as timely and essential in equipping them to drive sustainable
development and strengthen food security initiatives within their communities.
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