Lagos State Government Applauds Ogbonge-Swofon Farmers on Food Production

The Lagos State Government has applauded the Ogbonge-Swofon Women farmers for their resilience in ensuring that farm produce are available for citizens of the state.

The state government through the Ministry of Agriculture, called on Lagosians to support women farmers in order to make food available in the state.

Speaking at the inauguration of the maiden edition of Ogbonge-Swofon agricultural and entrepreneurial trade fair 2024, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Emmanuel Audu disclosed that agriculture is a tough business, as many banks do not want to lend to agriculture because of its peculiarities.

Audu, however, said that the association has displayed a high level of tenacity to be able to stand in the face of economic meltdown. “When you talk about Ogbonge, it represents resilience and strength, and I am glad that we are supporting this initiative as a ministry,” he added.

In her contribution, Lagos State Permanent Secretary, Home Affairs, Mrs.Lolade Aina commended the initiative and appreciated Ogbonge women for representing Nigerian women in such a laudable project. “I believe this is the first of many projects to come. You have put in hard works as wives, mothers, and farmers.”

In her welcome address, National Secretary of the Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria, SWOFON and President Ogbonge Women Multipurpose Agricultural and Cooperative Society, Chinasa Asonye disclosed that the programme was in partnership with Lagos State ministry of agriculture.

With the theme of the event, ‘Realizing and Developing Potentials in a Growing Economy’, Asonye noted that it was designed to boost income, gain visibility, and foster a spirit of collaboration among various businesses.

Held in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, Asonye ssid the event aligns perfectly with the government’s objectives to alleviate economic challenges, providing a beacon of hope and prosperity.

Her words, “Our slogan for this event, “Shinkini money, buy plenty,” encapsulates the essence of what we aim to achieve. The goods presented at this fair were sold at highly discounted prices, ensuring affordability and accessibility for all. We believe this initiative will not only support our community but also stimulate economic growth within Lagos State.

“We celebrate not only the vibrant spirit of entrepreneurship and agriculture but also the remarkable milestone of our 10th anniversary.

“We look forward to collaborating with more stakeholders in Lagos State in the future.”

Also, Ogbonge Titilola Olopade, Secretary Ogbonge Women, Lagos chapter said, “We are bringing farms closer to the people. We have fish farmers, poultry farmers, pig farmers, crops and vegetables farmers, as well as entrepreneurs.

“In Ogbonge Women, we are passionate about the financial well-being of our women, and that is why we save money, give loan to support our businesses. From ideology to realization of our dreams.

“There is capacity building for women because our belief is to improve on our ability in order to satisfy our customers. We are not only aiming at satisfying the local consumers but international markets.

“The challenge in Nigeria is food, and that is why we are striving to ensure that there are enough foods in the markets.

“It is a growing economy and we believe that every woman should be productive even our men,” she said.