The Office of Rural Development, in a bold push to foster inclusive growth and ensure food security across Lagos State, has stepped up its efforts to uplift rural communities and support agricultural stakeholders through strategic initiatives such as infrastructure development, access to farming resources, and empowerment programs aimed at enhancing productivity and improving rural livelihoods.
This was revealed by the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, during the Ministry’s 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing commemorating the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
Mr. Robert outlined a range of strategic interventions implemented through the Community Agriculture Department, including the revitalization of Demonstration Centres such as the Isheri Integrated Farm Centre and Ketu-Epe Farm Centre, which serve as training hubs for farmers across Lagos’ five divisions.
These centres are equipping grassroots farmers with innovative and sustainable farming methods.
Highlighting further achievements, the Commissioner noted the introduction of a pilot goat-rearing scheme, the rehabilitation of key agricultural infrastructure, and the distribution of hybrid plantain and banana suckers.
Additionally, rural farmers benefited from essential inputs like agrochemicals, catfish fingerlings, movable tanks, and fish feeds — all targeted at enhancing farm output and reinforcing food resilience in local communities.
To deepen engagement and build capacity, the Ministry also launched an interactive platform for Heads of Agriculture and Social Services from all 57 LGAs and LCDAs, providing local farmers access to training on market linkage and agricultural financing.
As part of the State’s nutritional advocacy, rural farmers were sensitized on micronutrient deficiencies, with support provided for the cultivation of biofortified crops and fish products to boost public health outcomes.
In collaboration with the Centre for Rural Development (CERUD), the State Government also empowered over 2,000 youths, women, and farmers with practical training in aquaculture, beekeeping, and digital skills, while 300 farmers received farming equipment across Ikorodu, Epe, and Badagry divisions.
Additionally, CERUD is currently rehabilitating the Kola Pod Husk Cottage Industry in Igbokuta, Ikorodu, to produce organic manure and local agricultural products. A greenhouse project nearing completion in Igbodu, Epe, is also set to support year-round vegetable farming and improve nutrition.
“These initiatives are central to achieving the sustainable rural development goals outlined in Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda,” the Commissioner stated, “and they are already driving measurable progress in reducing rural unemployment, enhancing food security, and fostering economic self-reliance across Lagos State.”
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