The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has flagged off its first cassava harvest of 2025 at Avia Farm in Badagry, marking a major step in its drive to empower women and boost food security across the state.
EpeInsights learnt that the initiative is part of WAPA’s broader agricultural empowerment programme, which provides men and women with access to demonstration plots and hands-on training in cultivating cassava, plantains, vegetables, and more.
Participants are not only learning how to grow crops—they’re also gaining valuable skills in post-harvest processing, including turning cassava into gari, under the guidance of seasoned agricultural trainers.
Speaking at the harvest event, Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, praised the participants for their hard work and commitment.
“These efforts are helping build self-reliant communities while strengthening the state’s economy,” she said.
Mrs. Toyin Salami, Director of the Poverty Alleviation Department, highlighted the importance of the Avia Farm project in achieving the Lagos State Government’s food sufficiency goals.
“This ongoing cycle of training, farming, and processing is a powerful tool for economic empowerment and increased agricultural output,” she said.
With the rainy season now underway, both trainers and participants are hopeful for more fruitful harvests ahead.
“The ministry is fully committed to supporting these initiatives and ensuring that both women and men continue to drive Lagos towards food security and economic sustainability,” Salami added.
