NALDA Unveils Agricultural Development Plans for Igboye Community in Lagos
The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has unveiled plans to transform Igboye community in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State into an agricultural hub, aimed at boosting food security, creating jobs, and driving rural development.
The initiative, which aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, was formally presented to the Orijeru of Igboye Kingdom, Oba Abdulrasaq Musa, during a ceremony at his palace attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, and senior NALDA officials.
Describing the plan as a new dawn for Igboye, Oba Musa said the project would unlock the community’s agricultural potential and provide opportunities for young people.
“Our lands have been fertile but underutilised for decades. With the right support, Igboye will not only feed Lagos but also contribute to Nigeria’s food security,” the monarch said.
He added that the initiative would help reduce rural-urban migration by providing economic prospects for youths.
Oba Musa urged residents to take ownership of the project, stressing the importance of unity for its success.
“This 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,” he said.
Leading the NALDA delegation, the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs. Chinwe Ozumma, said the project would introduce mechanised farming, improved seedlings, irrigation facilities, and cooperative groups to boost productivity and incomes.
She added that rural infrastructure such as farm access roads and water facilities would also be provided, with farmer safety placed at the centre of the plan.
“Security is a key part of this project,” Mrs. Ozumma said. “Working with traditional leaders and security agencies, we want to ensure farmers can work safely and confidently.”
Mrs. Ozumma assured that the programme would be inclusive, with both smallholder and large-scale farmers benefiting from the scheme.
Senior Technical Officer, Mr. Olusegun Owolabi, explained that the next phase would involve land mapping, farmer registration, and training in preparation for full-scale implementation.
Although a Memorandum of Understanding was presented to the monarch, NALDA clarified that discussions are still ongoing, with physical work expected to commence soon.
When fully operational, the project is expected to generate hundreds of jobs, improve food production for Lagos and nearby markets, and strengthen Nigeria’s pursuit of food security and sustainable rural growth.
Community 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.
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