The Governors of Kogi and Lagos states have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to mark a milestone in inter-state collaboration in food security and economic integration.
The development sees Kogi joining the N500 billion ‘Produce for Lagos’ programme to meet the food demand of Lagos state.
Speaking at the launch of the programme, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo noted that Kogi state has always been a part of the greatness of Lagos, and the new partnership will elevate that legacy for the benefit of the entire nation.
“We see this partnership as a mutual investment in people, productivity, and prosperity. Kogi produces food. Lagos consumes food. When we work together, what we achieve is food security, market stability, and inclusive growth.
“In Kogi State, our administration has made agriculture a top priority. We are not just cultivating crops; we are strengthening our agricultural value chain. We have prepared thousands of hectares of land across the state, provided improved seedlings and livestock breeds, deployed mechanized farming equipment, and extended grants to over 10,000 farmers to scale production.
“We are proud that Kogi leads Nigeria in cassava production, and we are among the top producers of yam, maize, and other cereals. We are making strategic investments to boost ginger farming, one of the most commercially viable crops globally today,” Governor Ododo said.
Furthermore, the Governor noted that his administration has revitalized agricultural extension services, and invested in rural life to cater for more than 80% of agricultural produce from the rural areas of the state.
“What this partnership with Lagos achieves is market assurance. Our farmers can now produce with confidence, knowing that there is a structured and reliable offtake system in place. It is not just about farming anymore, it is about structured prosperity for the entire agricultural ecosystem.
“Let me also commend Origin Tech Group Nigeria Limited for their foresight and investment in this noble project. The private sector must play a central role in our national agricultural renaissance, and you are leading by example,” Ododo added.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for his supports to massive food production and value chain initiatives, assuring the President of his commitment to aligning Kogi with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Ododo assured his Lagos counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-olu that the partnership will not end in paper, stating his preparedness to making it work.