The member representing Alimoso State Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Honorable Luqman Orelope, has urged his constituents to take up small-scale farming not only to fight hunger but also to ensure food security in Nigeria.
He made the call while speaking at the Assembly’s 9th Constituency Stakeholders’ Meeting, held at Multi-Joy Hall in Ipaja, Lagos, with the theme “Ensuring Food Security for a Sustainable Future”.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including elected officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and youths.
Orelope assured his constituents that the Lagos State government is ready to support small-scale farming initiatives, recognizing the crucial role they play in ensuring food security.
He also emphasize on synergy between all organs of government, noting further that the synergy between the executive and legislative arms is essential for driving meaningful change.
Orelope told his audience that he has been actively engaged in various legislative duties, oversight functions, and civic engagements since he became a lawmaker.
His focus on environmental issues and interventions addressing developmental problems has been particularly noteworthy.
Outlining his achievements, he demonstrated his dedication to transparency and accountability, values that are essential for effective governance.
Guest Speaker at the event, Honorable Akin Basiru emphasized the importance of small-scale farming in addressing food shortages and promoting economic stability. He noted that growing what we eat and selling the surplus can significantly contribute to food security and economic stability .
Stakeholders expressed concerns about the shortage of farmlands in Alimosho, as most lands have been sold to property developers. However, they appealed to the government to provide grants for small-scale farming, even in available spaces within compounds.
The state Commissioner for Wealth and Employment, Honorable Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, highlighted Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s initiatives in wealth creation and employment, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to engage in small-scale farming.
The Onishasha of Shasha Kingdom spoke on the need to involve traditional rulers in governance.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ipaja Police Station who represented the Area Commander for Area P Police Command urged youths to explore opportunities in agriculture, emphasizing its potential for economic empowerment and food security.
The engagement provided a valuable platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in small-scale farming; concerns about farmland shortages and the need for government grants were raised, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to drive progress.
The 9th Constituency Stakeholders’ Engagement concluded on a high note, with stakeholders departing in high spirits after engaging in fruitful and cordial discussions. The event wrapped up with a delightful atmosphere of camaraderie, fostering a sense of community and cooperation among participants.
Below are the achievements of the Lawmaker since assumption of office:
Legislative Achievements:
– Appropriation (Amendment) Law, 2023
– Appropriation Law, 2024
– Lagos State Electricity Bill
– Local Government Amendment Bill
– Motions on flooding mitigation, cabinet representation, and constituency projects
Constituency Projects:
– Re-channelization of canals, drainage construction, and road upgrades
