In a bold step toward tackling Nigeria’s current food security challenge, the Centre for Rural Development (CERUD) has emphasized the importance of empowering grassroots farmers with modern agricultural techniques and innovative livestock management strategies.
At a one-day Livestock Training Workshop held at CERUD’s Igbodu, Epe Office Complex, the centre — in collaboration with the Rural Agriculture Department of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development — brought together farmers from across Lagos State to gain practical, hands-on experience in modern livestock production.
Speaking at the event, CERUD Director, Musbau Muyiwa Balogun, noted that the training was inspired by feedback from previous sessions and aimed at enhancing the capacity of local farmers to add greater value to the state’s food chain.
> “We deliberately focused on local breeds for this training to encourage their patronage and sustainability within our communities,” he explained.
Mr. Balogun commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Agbaje, and Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, for their consistent support in promoting rural development initiatives.
In her remarks, Mrs. Kosoko, Director of Rural Agriculture, noted that the program was designed to strengthen the skills of existing livestock entrepreneurs while encouraging new entrants into the sector.
> “Participants are being exposed to smart farming, organic agriculture, modern marketing, and production techniques — all aligned with current global trends,” she said, urging trainees to seek continued guidance and collaboration with CERUD.
Dr. Femi Oke, Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Lagos Chapter, applauded the state government and CERUD for their proactive efforts, calling for stronger collaboration between farmers and local government agricultural officers.
Also speaking, Olusola Ajisafe, Director of Public Affairs, encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained, noting that it would not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute to food sufficiency in Lagos State.
In a vote of thanks, Mr. Okewowo, Head of Procurement, advised trainees to put their new skills into productive use for community and personal growth.
Farmers from all five divisions of the state — predominantly members of AFAN — expressed their deep appreciation to the Lagos State Government and CERUD for what they described as a life-changing opportunity.
Participants received expert-led instruction and practical exposure in key livestock enterprises such as piggery, snailery, rabbitry, and sheep and goat rearing, capped off with a hands-on session at the Agric YES Farm in Araga, Epe With the energy and enthusiasm displayed at the event, one thing is clear: Lagos’ grassroots farmers are ready to take the livestock sector to the next level — fueled by knowledge, innovation, and community-driven growth.
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