The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable, and profitable agricultural sector through the adoption of data-driven solutions and by tackling the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, disclosed this during the stakeholders’ meeting organised by Rid Labs, tagged “All Farmers Business Meeting (AFBM 2.0),” held at the Golden Kharis Event Centre, Ikorodu.
Represented by the Deputy Director, Fisheries Department, Mr. Olorunfemi Oniyide, Audu said the future of agriculture lies in facts, figures, and analytics rather than guesswork. He commended the organisers for creating a vital platform where farmers, agripreneurs, scientists, regulators, and investors can converge to share knowledge and explore innovative pathways for agricultural growth.
He explained that leveraging data helps to reduce losses, improve productivity, strengthen agribusinesses, and secure greater profitability for farmers.
On antimicrobial resistance in agriculture, Audu warned against the dangers of indiscriminate antibiotic use in livestock and aquaculture. He stressed that its consequences ranging from rising mortality in poultry and fish to failed treatments and higher production costs pose both economic and public health threats.
He assured stakeholders that the Ministry is committed to promoting proper diagnosis and responsible use of veterinary medicines, driving continuous capacity building for farmers and professionals, and developing sound policy frameworks that safeguard farm profitability and protect public health.
Reiterating the government’s support for farmers, Audu stated that Lagos will continue to strengthen food systems, drive agricultural innovation, and secure food security for all residents.
