By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Coconut |
LAGOS, NIGERIA – In a celebration of economic potential and agricultural heritage, the Lagos State Government marked the 2025 World Coconut Day with commitment to repositioning the coconut as a central pillar of its economy.
The event, held on Tuesday, September 2nd, at the Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park in Alausa-Ikeja, brought together farmers, processors, policymakers, and traditional leaders under the global theme: “Uncovering Coconut’s Power, Inspiring Global Action.”
The gathering served as a strategic platform to outline Lagos's ambitious plan to transform its coconut sub-sector from a local staple into a major source of industrialization, export revenue, and sustainable job creation for its growing population.
Central to the discourse was shifting the perception of coconut beyond just a food item. Prince Doheto Mesi, President of the African Coconut Heritage Initiative (Africoco) and convener of Agunkefest, championed this cause, describing the crop as an indispensable "wonder crop" with untapped value for food security, tourism, and youth employment.
“World Coconut Day 2025 is a platform for all stakeholders to plant more, process more, stop indiscriminate felling of trees, and protect our coconut wealth for generations yet unborn,” Mesi stated, applauding Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his sustained support.
Highlighting the tangible progress already made, the General Manager of the Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA), Miss Olajumoke Ola, revealed Nigeria's impressive climb in global rankings.
“It is true that Nigeria claims the 18th position in the world just because Lagos State is doing well in the coconut value chain. In Africa, we are only second to one country,” Ola announced. She emphasized the state's strategic pivot, noting that Lagos is now aggressively repositioning coconut “not just as food, but as one of our major crops for industrialization and export.”
The role of Badagry as the heart of this agricultural revolution was a key focus. Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Chairman of Badagry Local Government, celebrated the collaborative efforts that have propelled the initiative from a modest project to a source of state pride.
“When this project started, it was like child’s play, but today it has become a pride for Lagos. As we celebrate, please don’t forget Badagry,” he urged, underscoring the region's critical contribution.
Mrs. Ruth Abisola Olusanya, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, who reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to expanding the industry with Badagry at its core.
“Coconut is the only cash crop of Lagos, and it should be one we are exporting in large quantities,” Olusanya said. “Our goal is to make Badagry the coconut belt that puts Lagos in a position of competitive advantage,” she added.