Lagos State Cooperative Federation (LASCOFED) organized a one-day Cooperative Agricultural Empowerment program focusing on mushroom and snail rearing recently.
The event which held at the LASCOFED Multipurpose Hall in Ogba, Lagos was attended by a mix of physical and online participants with the aim to equip cooperators with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in the value chains of the agricultural products.
Barrister Oladipo Shobule, President of LASCOFED, in a keynote address delivered at the occasion, said the training was free to empower cooperators and other interested members of the public, thereby fulfilling the promise of the current leadership of LASCOFED. The President stated. “We aim to raise a new generation of farmers who will promote agriculture for the betterment of our local communities.”
Barr. Shobule elaborated on the choice of mushroom and snail rearing, noting their environmental and economic benefits. He emphasized that these Agricultural products require minimal land and capital for startup. He also informed that there was provision for online participation, ensuring that those unable to attend in person could still benefit from the training.
He also used the opportunity to address the current state of the Lagos State Association of Cooperative Farmers, urging members to reinvigorate their participation in LASCOFED activities. He assured them of LASCOFED’s support to resuscitate the association.
Mr. Ayuba Ogunsanu, Chairman of the Agricultural/Investment Committee, welcomed attendees and urged them to ensure that they make good use of the empowerment program as engaging in any of the products discussed will serve as additional income stream for participants. This will also enable them to contribute to food security initiatives of government.
He appreciated the leadership of LASCOFED for their commitment to promoting cooperative agricultural multipurpose societies (CAMS) in Lagos State.
Ogunsanu informed participants that Sterling Bank had products targeted at farmers. Representative of the bank later made a presentation to participants and emphasized the bank’s readiness to work with the cooperative sector to empower cooperators involved in agricultural value chains. The presentation concluded that the collaboration aimed to facilitate future business opportunities between the bank and members of Cooperative Societies in Lagos.
Barr. Shobule and Mr. Ogunsanu urged participants to take the training seriously and apply the knowledge gained to create sustainable agricultural businesses. They expressed hope that this initiative would significantly impact cooperative societies and the broader community.
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