Agriculture has been described not only as a tool for food production but also as a vibrant gateway to culture, innovation, tourism, and sustainable wealth creation.
This was the submission of the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Abdullahi, at the World Agritourism Festival 2025 and Award Night, themed “Promoting Sustainable Agriculture through Tourism,” organized by Xtralarge Farms and Resorts in Lagos.
Senator Abdullahi stated that the initiative aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and would help reshape the national perception of agriculture.
According to him, the festival demonstrated how agriculture and tourism can be blended to benefit farmers and other players in the food system, using creativity and collaboration.
“The promoter of this festival has clearly shown that when diverse experiences are combined, agriculture and tourism become powerful tools for inclusive development,” he said.
In her remarks, the Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Bamidele Abiodun, noted that the current administration had made agriculture central to economic diversification.
She added that recent international partnerships including agreements with the governments of Brazil and Karta reflected growing global confidence in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. According to her, these partnerships would expand infrastructure, introduce modern technology, and increase productivity across the value chain.
Echoing the same sentiment, the Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, emphasized that agriculture had long been viewed merely as subsistence.
However, he said the narrative is changing, as agritourism now presents a unique intersection where Nigeria’s rich farming heritage meets the demand for modern tourism.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kehinde Jokotoye, Owotomo encouraged stakeholders to continue innovating and collaborating.
“Your presence here confirms a shared commitment to build a future where every farm visit tells a powerful story and every meal strengthens a community,” she added.
On her part, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Hon. Abisola Olusanya, described agriculture as the heartbeat of human survival feeding nations, supporting livelihoods, and preserving ecosystems.
She stressed the need for a change in narrative, urging that agritourism be used to showcase the beauty, heritage, and innovation embedded in Nigerian food systems.
The Chief Executive Officer of Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, Dr. Seyi Davids, said the event was designed to reposition agriculture as a dynamic force for rural empowerment, national development, and cultural pride.
He added that the festival was a platform bringing together innovators, farmers, investors, and policymakers to celebrate sustainable farming and rural entrepreneurship.
Davids urged Nigerians to join the movement to transform agriculture into not just a means of livelihood, but a lifestyle and global experience.
Highlights of the festival included a cultural display, fashion show, and awards presentation to distinguished guests including Dr. (Mrs.) Bamidele Abiodun and other dignitaries.
