Lagos govt reiterates commitment to data-driven agriculture

THE Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable, and profitable agricultural sector through the adoption of data-driven solutions and the fight against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, who disclosed this during the stakeholders’ meeting organised by Rid Labs, tagged: “All Farmers Business Meeting (AFBM 2.0),” held at the Golden Kharis Event Centre, Ikorodu, said the future of agriculture lies in facts, figures, and analytics rather than guesswork.

Represented by the Deputy Director, Fisheries Department, Mr. Olorunfemi Oniyide, while speaking on the theme of the meeting “Numbers Don’t Lie: Turning Farm Data into Profits,” the Permanent Secretary commended the organisers for creating a vital platform where farmers, agripreneurs, scientists, regulators, and investors can converge to share knowledge and explore innovative pathways for agricultural growth.

He explained that leveraging data helps to reduce losses, improve productivity, strengthen agribusinesses, and secure greater profitability for farmers.

While highlighting the challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance in agriculture, Audu warned against the dangers of indiscriminate antibiotic use in livestock and aquaculture, noting that its effects, ranging from rising mortality in poultry and fish to failed treatments and higher production costs, pose both economic and public health threats.

He assured stakeholders that the Ministry is committed to promoting proper diagnosis and responsible use of veterinary medicines, driving continuous capacity building for farmers and professionals, and developing sound policy frameworks that safeguard farm profitability and protect public health.

Reiterating the government’s unwavering support for farmers, Audu stated that the state will continue to strengthen food systems, drive agricultural innovation, and secure food security for all residents.