By Raheem Ibrahim<\/b><\/p>\n
As part of efforts to strengthen food security, create jobs, and support rural development, the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has unveiled plans to transform Igboye community in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State into a major agricultural hub.<\/p>\n
The initiative, which aligns with the Federal Government\u2019s Renewed Hope Agenda, was formally presented to the Orijeru of Igboye Kingdom, Oba Abdulrasaq Musa, at his palace during a ceremony attended by community leaders and senior NALDA officials.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the event, Oba Musa described the project as \u201ca new dawn\u201d for the community, noting that it would unlock Igboye\u2019s vast agricultural potential.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor decades, our lands have been fertile but underutilized. This partnership will change the story of our kingdom. With the right support, Igboye will not only feed Lagos but also contribute significantly to Nigeria\u2019s food security,\u201d the monarch said.<\/p>\n
He further stressed that the project would provide opportunities for young people, curbing rural-urban migration. \u201cOur youths have been leaving because they see no opportunities here. This project will give them a reason to stay, to prosper, and to build their futures on the same soil their ancestors tilled.\u201d<\/p>\n
The traditional ruler also commended NALDA\u2019s plan to improve rural infrastructure and farmer safety, adding, \u201cThis is not just about crops; it is about creating a safe and productive environment where our people can thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n
Leading the NALDA delegation, the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs. Chinwe Ozumma, explained that the initiative would introduce mechanized farming, improved seedlings, irrigation systems, and cooperative groups to help farmers scale up their operations and increase their incomes.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur goal is to turn rural communities into engines of agricultural productivity. By helping farmers adopt modern techniques and ensuring market linkages, we can boost yields, reduce post-harvest losses, and create sustainable jobs and income streams for locals,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
She added that the plan would also deliver rural infrastructure such as farm access roads and water facilities, while incorporating security measures to safeguard farmlands and farmers.<\/p>\n
\u201cSecurity is a key part of this plan. Working with traditional leaders and security agencies, we want to ensure that farmers can work safely and confidently,\u201d she remarked.<\/p>\n
NALDA\u2019s Senior Technical Officer, Mr. Olusegun Owolabi, disclosed that the next steps would include land mapping, farmer registration, and training to prepare the community for full-scale implementation.<\/p>\n
Although a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was presented to the monarch, NALDA clarified that the agreement has not yet been signed. However, discussions are in advanced stages, with physical work expected to commence soon.<\/p>\n
Prominent traditional leaders present at the event included Chief J.A. Otunowo, Oluti of Igboye and Baale of Tilowuro Village; Chief C.O. Ariyo, Baale of Erimope; Chief Onalaja Shakiru, Baale of Ogoigoi; Chief Adebowale Olumide, Baale of Talase\/Gbojuwara; Chief Gbemi Onakoya, Baale of Esebute; Chief Toyin Sangosanya, Baale of Oriwu; as well as the Baales of Egan and Oke Egan.<\/p>\n
In his closing remarks, Oba Musa urged the community to take ownership of the project and ensure its success. \u201cThis is our project; we must protect it and support it. If we work together, the benefits will reach every family, and Igboye will become a model for rural development in Nigeria,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Mrs. Ozumma reaffirmed NALDA\u2019s commitment to inclusiveness, assuring that all farmers, regardless of scale, would benefit from the program.<\/p>\n
When fully operational, the project is expected to create hundreds of jobs, boost food production for Lagos and its environs, and strengthen Nigeria\u2019s drive toward food security and sustainable rural growth.<\/p>\n
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