Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), has called on Nigerians to contribute actively to the development of the nation by learning skills and ensuring that their children are engaged in productive activities like farming.
Olusi made this statement on Friday, 11 October, 2024, during the 9th Constituency Stakeholders’ Meeting held across all 40 state constituencies in Lagos State, themed “Ensuring Food Security for a Sustainable Future: Youth Participation in Home-Grown Farming.”
Addressing the gathering, Olusi emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in the democratic process.
He noted that Nigerians should commend the government for its achievements and provide constructive feedback on areas requiring improvement. “Most citizens are failing in this aspect. We need to do more,” he remarked.
In a speech read by Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu on behalf of Lagos Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Lagosians were urged to work together to secure the future of food production in the state. Obasa highlighted the role of youth in creating a thriving agricultural sector, stating, “Our youths must be empowered, our farmers must thrive, and our communities must flourish.”
Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa State Constituency II, emphasized the importance of these meetings in fostering engagement between lawmakers and their constituents. “The feedback we receive from the people helps shape the policies and projects that are prioritized in the House of Assembly,” he said, adding that this year’s focus on food security and youth involvement in farming is crucial for the state’s future.
Yishawu promised to make seeds available for one month to his constituents that are interested in farming.
Participants, including government officials and stakeholders, reiterated the need for youths to participate in agriculture, not just as a profession but as a way to address food security challenges and contribute to the nation’s economic diversification.
Jerry Phillips, Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Lagos State Development and Property Corporation
(LSDPC) Matters, underscored the significance of government initiatives promoting youth involvement in farming, citing the First Lady’s encouragement of agricultural projects through competitions and financial rewards.
The event concluded with a call for all citizens to take personal responsibility for ensuring food security and reducing inflation, which has been significantly driven by rising food prices.
Among the stakeholders that came were secondary school students who have the opportunity to ask questions on how they can start agriculture in their backyard.
