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The Lagos state government had announced it plans to empower 10 major bakeries in mass Coconut Bread Production
The Governor of the state, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode made this disclosure during the World Coconut Day and 7th Lagos Heritage festival tagged “AGUNKFEST 2018” which was held in Badagry.
The 2018 edition of the event was themed “Harnessing Coconut Production for Economic Empowerment and Tourism Development in Lagos State”.
The Governor, who was represented by Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, the Special Adviser on Environment the empowerment is as a result of the desire of the state government to create more market avenue for coconut.
The Governor pointed out that coconut tree has been named the most useful single tree in the world due to its versatility, product utilization, and longevity.
He said, “Therefore, taking coconut to another level with this type of programme is long overdue.
“Nigeria is ranked 18 in the world as a coconut producing country and Lagos State is contributing 70 percent of the total production.
“Our government places high premium on sustainable food production which is the impetus driving the various activities in the agricultural sector with a renewed commitment.
“A major step taken towards achieving this goal is the establishment of the Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA) to uphold the state’s comparative advantage in coconut production.”
Speaking further, he said in order to achieve this goal, processing plants have been distributed to 12 local governments and local council development areas in the state.
“We have also embarked on the rehabilitation of the coconut belt, massive production of improved coconut seedlings, capacity building and empowerment of coconut value chain actors.
“We have channeled a lot of resources into creating an enduring infrastructural architecture that would ensure that the state’s tourism potential is fully harnessed for all-round economic growth and development.
“We will continue to create the enabling environment for investment in coconut production, commercialization, and utilization,” he concluded.
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Folukemi is a trained journalist, a writer, a social media enthusiast. She believes being happy and fulfilled is not a fairy tale and she is dedicated to helping others find theirs.