The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), has envisioned a future where Nigeria will not only be self-sufficient in coconut production, but also become a global leader in the coconut industry. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, dropped this hint at the FMAFS’s Lagos State office in Agege when the ministry distributed 14,633 hybrid coconut seedlings to farmers in Lagos, Edo, Akwa Ibom, Kogi and Anambra states under the National Association of Coconut, Producers, Processors and Marketers of Nigeria (NACOPPMAN), to boost productivity.
Kyari, who was represented by Director, FMAFS Lagos State office, Omolara Oguntuyi, said the gesture was part of the Federal Government’s palliatives to smallholder farmers to cushion the effects of flood in order to boost agricultural production, to enhance food and nutrition security in the country. According to him, the beneficiary states being the five major coconut producing states were selected due to their optimal production, stressing that other producing states would benefit soon. He said that the coconut value chain is among the crops being promoted by the ministry, stating that the event marked a significant step toward the growth and prosperity of the coconut industry in the country.
He advised farmers to embrace the opportunity with enthusiasm and determination, saying that in Nigeria, the coconut sector holds immense potential to drive economic growth, enhance food security and promote sustainability. To the coconut farmers, he said, “Your unwavering commitment to nurturing these palms, often under challenging circumstances, especially through the flooding period, has contributed to the economic growth and food security of our nation. He commended the farmers’ effort and urged them to continue, adding that in addition to the seedlings, the government is committed to providing the necessary support, training, and provision of resources to help them to maximise their coconut farming potentials.
“Together, we will build a vibrant coconut industry that benefits farmers and enhances the livelihoods of countless Nigerians”, he said. The General Manager, Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA), Oladapo Olakulehin, while speaking at the event, appreciated the efforts of the FMAFS for the commitment to support the coconut farmers, particularly in the face of flooding challenges that posed significant threats to the agriculture sector. He noted that the occasion marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to bolster agricultural production and enhance food and nutrition security in Lagos State and the entire country. Olakulehin added that the state was committed to creating a sustainable and prosperous future for coconut farmers, promoting entrepreneurship, and ensuring a greener, healthier, and more economically-vibrant Lagos State for all residents.
