Lagos State government through the State Agricultural Development Authority, LSADA has called for the adoption of integrative solutions towards solving food insecurity with proper administration of Urban farming.
The government made the call during a one-day Stakeholders Workshop on Urban Agriculture held at the Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro Mushin, to sensitise the Heads of Agric Units of the 57 Local government and Local council development areas as well as the Environmental health officers in the state.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya said that the whole essence is to enlighten the participants on their crucial role in mobilising communities, advocating for urban agricultural land use, and driving grassroots awareness towards food sustainability.
Olusanya who was represented by the Director of Veterinary Services of the Ministry, Dr Rasheed Macaulay mentioned that it has become imperative to cascade the awareness to the grassroots with the right education and technical support.
“Integrating agriculture into our urban landscapes reduces dependence on external food sources, lowers transportation costs, and improves access to fresh, nutritious produce, and Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems and its agencies, is fully committed to this vision. We are creating enabling policies,strengthening extension services, supporting innovation, and building partnerships with local councils to scale up urban farming across the State,” she said.
The Commissioner emphasised that Urban agriculture must move beyond pilot initiatives and be embedded in schools, homes, markets, and faith-based institutions.
Food production
In his welcome address, the Programme Manager of the agency, Mr Alade Aliru said the idea is to ensure food is grown closer to where it is consumed, thereby reducing dependence on long-distance transportation, and creating greener, healthier cities and wholesome consumption.
Aliru stressed that the workshop is designed to engage the stakeholders on the benefits, opportunities, and practical strategies for implementing urban agriculture in their respective communities.
According to him “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.”
Rapid Urbanisation
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Emmanuel Fatai Audu who was represented by the Director of Fisheries, Daisi Agarrey said that with rapid urbanisation exerting pressure on land, infrastructure, and food systems, cultivating food within urban and peri-urban areas offers a strategic solution.
“Urban farming is no longer just an option, it is a necessity and it is more than just planting crops, it is about cultivating healthier communities, greener environments, and more resilient livelihoods,” Audu said.
Three technical sessions were held on integrating crop farming, urban farming on Livestock, as well as profitable fish farming in an urban setting, as participants applauded the initiative to equip them towards ensuring sustainable development and food security in Lagos state.