The Lagos State Government has distributed farm inputs, mechanized equipment, and cash grants to farmers across nine sites under the National Programme for Food Security (NPFS), as part of efforts to modernize agriculture and improve livelihoods.
The initiative was unveiled during the 2025 Farmers’ Field Day and Appreciation event, themed “Transitioning from Simple Tools to Mechanized Equipment.” Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, represented by Permanent Secretary Emmanuel Aoudu, stressed that the state can no longer rely on manual farming methods to feed its population of over 20 million.
“This program shows the shift from hand-held tools to mechanized equipment, which is the future of agricultural productivity in Lagos,” Aoudu said, noting the government’s commitment to youth engagement and sector transformation.
Farmers benefited from mini-tractors, power tillers, solar-powered sprayers, fish-smoking kilns, poultry and fish feed, deep freezers for artisanal fish processors, and other equipment. Cash grants were also provided to support the purchase of agrochemicals and essential inputs. Approximately 2,000 farmers are expected to benefit from the intervention, aligning with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision to enhance food production and strengthen farming communities.
Secretary to the Lagos State House Committee on Agriculture, Babatunde Olajide, highlighted the committee’s readiness to support legislative frameworks that enhance food security. National Programme Coordinator Suleman Salisu commended Lagos for expanding its program sites and effectively implementing the initiative.
“The progress Lagos has made is remarkable,” Salisu said, while Head of Operations Idris Sewu noted that the state continues to set the pace for agricultural development through grassroots-focused programs.
Coordinating Director of the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority, Adironke Toju-Tubi, explained that the NPFS, launched nationally in 2002 and adopted in Lagos in 2011, has grown from three to 10 sites due to its success. She urged beneficiaries to make responsible use of the distributed tools.
“My advice is that they should use the equipment well. Some people dispose of government inputs for peanuts. This is meant to improve their lives,” Toju-Tubi warned.
The program is part of Lagos State’s broader strategy to modernize farming, enhance food security, and empower farmers with practical tools and resources to sustain agricultural growth.
