Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, called on stakeholders to renew their commitment in making agriculture the backbone of the state’s economy.

He also promised that the state would reduce the importation of cattle into Lagos State by 50 per cent in the next five years.

Sanwo-Olu, while speaking during the grand finale of the 2024 World Food Day celebration, said that the theme for the event, “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” said: “We are also advancing cattle production through the Cattle Feedlot Project at Igbodu, which aims to reduce the importation of cattle into Lagos by 50 per cent over the next five years. This project is crucial in promoting locally sourced, disease-free beef for Lagos residents.”

Meanwhile, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Oluwarotimi Fashola, said that the ministry is resolute in its mission to ensure that all citizens have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, which is essential for active and healthy lives.

In another development, Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation for its unwavering dedication towards empowering women and youths as the ministry graduated 5,512 students from the 19 skills acquisition centres across the state.

Sanwo-Olu, who spoke during the graduation ceremony of the class of 2023/2024, stressed the importance of skills acquisition as a collective effort to reduce poverty and foster economic growth.

He said his administration would create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, saying: “Today’s event is proof of the dedication shown by each of you. Your graduation signifies not only your achievement but also the positive impact you are poised to make on the economy and the society at large.”

The governor expressed gratitude to the commissioner, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, for her tireless efforts and passion for uplifting the lives of women, young adults, and vulnerable groups in the state.

He urged the graduates to use their knowledge to create jobs, innovate, and inspire others.

Dada said that the graduation ceremony is a testament to the hard work, resilience, and determination of the students.