The Lagos State Government says it has distributed coconut processing equipment to coconut processors in 12 local government and local council development areas.
It stated that the equipment, which was shared by the Lagos State Coconut Development Authority, was part of its empowerment programme in the coconut value chain.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Food Security, Mr. Okanlawon Sanni, who gave out the equipment to the beneficiaries at an event, said the gesture showed that the government was committed to boosting food security in the state, a statement said on Sunday.
Sanni said the 12 units of coconut processing equipment donated included stainless two tons per hour coconut grater, 7.5 electric motor, industrial burners, aluminium bowls and spoons, among others.
The Special Adviser warned that diverting the use of the equipment was prohibited.
Sanni said, “Coconut growers in the state have also been empowered with more than 30,000 coconut seedlings. Over 600 youths and women have been trained in the production of coconut oil and art crafts.”
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Oluwatoyin Suarau, noted that the empowerment programme for the coconut processors cut across processors from Badagry, Kosofe, Ori-Ade, Oto Awori, Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Ojo, Surulere , Ikorodu, Lekki Agege and Alimosho councils.
“Many products such as coconut oil, coconut cream, soap, coconut water, hair cream, coconut body cream, coconut candy and many others can be made from coconut if properly harnessed,” he added.
The President of the Lagos State Coconut Processors, Mr. Muhammad Mustapha, commended the government for adding value to the sector.
By: Sesan Olufowobi
Punch News
