THE Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to empowering women and promoting sustainable livelihoods through agricultural initiatives.
The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Mrs Bolaji Cecilia Dada stated this at the closing ceremony of a three-day training programme on cassava and vegetable production, processing, and marketing for export organised by the Ministry at the Air Force Base in Shasha, Akowonjo.
Dada highlighted the State Government's focus on alleviating poverty, particularly among vulnerable women and indigent youths. She noted that the present administration, through its T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Development Agenda, prioritises food security and agricultural development as key components of its economic strategy.
"The current administration has made an unprecedented degree of commitment to the general development of women and has demonstrated a high level of gender sensitivity in its inclusivity concept. This training programme is timely and essential, as agriculture remains a cornerstone of our economy. We must ensure that our women are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this sector," she said.
The Commissioner encouraged the participants to leverage the knowledge gained during the training to build sustainable agricultural enterprises, emphasising the State's commitment to supporting women at the forefront of agricultural advancements. "In empowering you through learning, you are taking critical steps not only towards your individual growth but also towards the prosperity of our communities," Dada added.
Meanwhile, the Commander of the NAF Base Shasha, Air Commodore M.A Isah, commended the laudable initiative of the Lagos State Government being implemented through MWAPA.
The training programme, which focused on cassava and vegetable production, provided participants with hands-on experience and expert guidance in modern agricultural techniques, processing methods, and marketing strategies.
To further support the participants, the Ministry distributed 200 bundles of cassava stems and 200 packs of Shoko seeds. Certificates of Participation were presented to the farmers as well as essential farm tools and implements after the training.
Present at the event were Oba of Shasha Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Kabiyesi Babatunde Lawal; his Chiefs, Secretary to Alimosho Local Government, Mr Dare Ogunkoya, who represented the Chairman, and seasoned facilitators.
