WORLD FOOD DAY: EGBEDA LOCAL GOVERNMENT JOINS 2026 CELEBRATION, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO FOOD SECURITY “Food Security Is National Security” — No Food, No Nation

Egbeda Local Government has participated in the 2026 World Food Day celebration held at the Western Hall, House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State, to promote food security, sustainable agriculture and the importance of farmers to national development.

The event, organised by the Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, brought together farmers, agricultural stakeholders, government representatives and members of the public to celebrate agriculture and highlight its contributions to food production, economic growth and improved livelihoods.

Activities at the celebration included exhibitions of locally produced agricultural commodities, product displays, a community outreach rally and other engagements designed to showcase farmers’ contributions while promoting agricultural innovation and sustainable food systems.

Held under the global theme, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” the celebration highlighted the importance of research, innovation and sustainable agricultural practices in strengthening food systems and ensuring access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food for all.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, toured the exhibition stands of participating local governments and commended farmers and other agricultural stakeholders for their participation and contributions to the success of the celebration.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Egbeda Local Government, Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele, the Supervisor for Agriculture, Hon. Job Taiyewo, described World Food Day as a globally recognised occasion for raising awareness about food security and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of farmers to food production, livelihoods and human survival.

He emphasised that farmers remain central to ensuring food availability and sustaining the agricultural sector, noting that their efforts are indispensable to societal development, economic growth and the overall well-being of the people.

Hon. Taiyewo also stressed the need to embrace innovation, research and sustainable farming practices to address emerging agricultural challenges, improve productivity and strengthen food security.

He expressed appreciation to the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Egbeda Local Government, under the leadership of its Director, Mr. Gregory Omolewo, alongside his deputy, Mrs. Salawu, farmers from the council area and other agricultural stakeholders, for showcasing locally produced agricultural commodities at the event.

He commended their commitment to promoting agriculture, supporting local production and raising awareness of the sector’s importance to food security and economic development.

The council leadership further noted that the 2026 World Food Day celebration serves as a reminder of the need for sustained investment in agricultural innovation, research and modern farming methods to build resilient food systems capable of meeting the needs of present and future generations.

The participation of Egbeda Local Government reaffirmed the council’s recognition of agriculture as a critical driver of economic development and food security, as well as the importance of supporting farmers and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices.

Those in attendance from Egbeda Local Government included Mr. Gregory Omolewo, Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources; his deputy, Mrs. Salawu; Hon. Job Taiyewo, Supervisor for Agriculture; Hon. Ayanwale, Supervisor for Environment; and other heads of departments.