LAGOS EMPOWERS FARMERS WITH 12 COCONUT PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

IKEJA, Nigeria – Lagos State government through the Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA) has distributed coconut processing equipment to coconut processors in 12 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas of the State as part of its empowerment programme in the coconut value chain.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Food Security, Mr. Okanlawon Sanni who distributed the coconut processing equipment to the beneficiaries disclosed that the state government has shown commitment to boosting food security in the state stressing that government included coconut processors in its agricultural development programme with a view to developing the State’s coconut value chain.

Sanni noted that the 12 units of coconut processing equipment donated to coconut processors in the state include, Stainless two ton per hour coconut greater, 7.5 H.P Electric motor, Industrial burners, Aluminium bowls and spoon amongst others. While admonishing beneficiaries to ensure optimal utilization of the equipment for the purpose they are meant for, the Special Adviser warned that diverting the use of the equipment in any form or illicit use is prohibited.

“The goal of distributing the equipment is to expand the scope of coconut processing operations in the state and further collaborate with the private sector in promoting the coconut value chain”, he said. Sanni disclosed further that coconut growers in the state have also been empowered with more than 30,000 coconut seedlings adding that over 600 youths and women have also been trained on the production of coconut oil and arts craft.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Oluwatoyin Suarau who also spoke at the event   noted that the empowerment program for the coconut processors cuts across processors from Badagry, Kosofe, Ori-Ade, Oto Awori, Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Ojo, Surulere , Ikorodu,Lekki Agege and Alimosho LGAs&LCDAs

While congratulating the beneficiaries, Suarau  opined that coconut value chain has a lot of potentials that can be harnessed which can impact positively on the GDP of the country.  He added that coconut has a lot of benefits noting that coconut has been scientifically proven to have a lot of medicinal values when consumed on regular basis.

The Commissioner explained many products such as coconut oil, coconut cream, soap, burundi, coconut water, hair cream, coconut body cream, coconut candy and many others can be made from if properly harnessed. He assured coconut processors that the government will continue to support progressive activities of processors in ensuring the betterment of coconut processing in the State.

He enjoined them to do more in promoting the legacy of coconut as a crop of heritage. The President of the Lagos state coconut processors, Mr. Muhammad Mustapha who also spoke at the event commended the State government for adding value to the sector, acknowledging also that all efforts geared towards developing the coconut industry is yielding good results.