Kogi State Government has announced that the newly signed Food for Lagos partnership is poised to significantly boost the income and prosperity of local farmers. The government reaffirmed its dedication to transforming the state’s agricultural sector and enhancing the livelihoods of its farming communities.

In a statement released to the press in Lokoja on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, outlined strategic initiatives already underway to tap into the full potential of this innovative collaboration.

Fanwo explained that less than two weeks after signing the historic agreement with Lagos State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has taken tangible steps to accelerate food production, upgrade infrastructure, and attract high-value investments into Kogi’s agriculture.

“The governor didn’t just sign papers and leave it at that,” Fanwo emphasised. “He has returned to Kogi determined to ensure the partnership’s success. Thanks to his leadership, Kogi farmers will soon see increased earnings from their agricultural produce.”

The commissioner also shared that the Ministry of Agriculture has identified key regions with comparative advantages for specific crops, guaranteeing that each area contributes effectively to the overall food value chain. Notably, Kogi is already Nigeria and West Africa’s leading producer of cassava, and efforts are ongoing to expand its dominance in other food production areas.

“We’re not just aspiring to be the food basket of the nation—we are actively working to make that a reality,” Fanwo stated confidently.

Highlighting Governor Ododo’s visionary leadership, Fanwo recalled that from the start of his administration, agriculture has been at the heart of his development agenda. The governor’s campaign promises and inaugural speech centered on achieving self-sufficiency in food production, and current actions are fulfilling that pledge.

The government’s strategic programmes, such as the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), are also playing a vital role. RAAMP focuses on rehabilitating rural roads to improve market access, while the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative is channelling investments into rural farming communities.

Fanwo affirmed that “Agriculture in Kogi has never received this level of attention before.” He further added that young people and women from all parts of the state—from Ibaji to Gegu and Egbe—are now actively participating in the agricultural revival sweeping across Kogi.

The Commissioner also emphasised that improvements in rural security have boosted farming activities and increased farmers’ confidence. He described the Food for Lagos project not just as a solution for feeding Nigeria’s largest city but also as a catalyst for wealth creation and economic empowerment within Kogi.

“With consistent implementation beyond promises, this partnership will make Kogi’s farmers wealthier and the state more resilient economically,” he concluded.