The National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), in collaboration with the Tomatoes & Orchard Producers Association of Nigeria (TOPAN), has distributed free tomato seeds and conducted an intensive training session for over 750 farmers in Lagos East Senatorial District.
EpeInsights gathered that the initiative, held on Thursday at Anorak Farms in Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Epe Division, is part of the broader “South-West Tomato Farmers Project 2025” aimed at transforming tomato cultivation in the region within three months.
The event attracted farmers from across Epe, Ikorodu, Ibeju-Lekki, Alimosho, Kosofe, Ikosi-Ejinrin, Shomolu, Eti-Osa, Ifako-Ijaiye, and Lagos Island. It was facilitated through the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), as part of efforts to ensure equitable reach and active participation of grassroots farmers.
Speaking at the training, Dr. AbdulRafiu Ayoola Monsuru, a horticulture expert from NIHORT, stressed the urgency of immediate action to ensure high-yield harvests.
“The government is committed to expanding the base of tomato farmers and enhancing productivity across the South-West,” he said.
“That is why we are not only giving out seeds but also providing technical know-how to help farmers cultivate effectively from nursery to harvest.”
Each beneficiary received 50 grams of premium tomato seeds, enough to cover 15 plots, organized into 50 cultivation clusters. NIHORT also confirmed that it has compiled a complete database of the beneficiaries to monitor their progress and provide support throughout the planting and harvesting cycles.
TOPAN President, Mr. Oyeleke Bola, described the project as a strategic step toward regional self-sufficiency in tomato production.
“We’ve already covered Oyo and Ogun states. Today, we’re here in Lagos, and by tomorrow we’ll be in Badagry,” he said.
“My only advice to our beneficiaries is simple—don’t sell these seeds. Use them. Let us seize this opportunity to change the story of tomato farming in the South-West.”
Mr. Bola explained that the broader goal is to position the South-West as a key tomato-producing zone, thereby reducing dependency on the North and strengthening food security for urban and rural populations alike.
Reacting to the development, Engr. Owolabi Odulaja, Lagos State Coordinator for Tomato & Orchard Processing and Chairman of AFAN, Epe Chapter, commended NIHORT and TOPAN for their proactive role in empowering local farmers.
“We are confident that this initiative will result in a massive surge in tomato supply across Lagos and the South-West. On behalf of AFAN, I assure our partners that these farmers will maximize this opportunity,” he said.
Host of the event and CEO of Anorak Farms, Mrs. Kikelomo Oshodi-Glover, highlighted the need for greater government investment in agriculture to sustain gains from such programs.
“If we want to achieve meaningful transformation in the agricultural sector, we must provide farmers with access to land, equipment, and modern tools,” she noted.
“Today’s training and seed distribution is a solid foundation, but sustained growth will require continued support and infrastructure.”
The South-West Tomato Farmers Project 2025 has been gaining momentum as it moves across key states in the region.
With Lagos now actively engaged, stakeholders believe the program can significantly reduce the current tomato supply gap in local markets and boost income for smallholder farmers.
As the planting season begins in earnest, all eyes are on the participating farmers, whose commitment and adherence to expert training will be critical to the success of the program.
