The Oyo State Government has announced a two-day celebration of the 2026 World Food Day, scheduled for Thursday, October 15, and Friday, October 16, with a call on farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and members of the public to participate in the event.
Organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the celebration will feature an exposition, commemoration, and exhibition of local products on the first day, while activities on Friday will include a community outreach rally, farmers’ exhibition of agricultural products, and other activities.
The celebration will be held under the global theme “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” which highlights the importance of innovation and sustainable practices in strengthening food systems and ensuring access to safe and nutritious food.
According to a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, activities for both days will take place at Western Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan.
Olaleye described World Food Day as a globally recognised occasion for raising awareness about food security and acknowledging the contributions of farmers to food production, livelihoods, and human survival.
He emphasised that farmers play a critical role in ensuring food availability and sustaining the agricultural sector, noting that their contributions remain indispensable to societal development.
The Commissioner disclosed that farmers from various groups across the state, alongside other agricultural stakeholders and well-wishers, would converge at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Friday by 8am for a rally before proceeding to Western Hall for the day’s activities.
He urged farmers, agricultural stakeholders, researchers, students, and members of the public to participate actively in the celebration, noting that the event would provide an opportunity to showcase locally produced agricultural commodities and promote awareness of the importance of agriculture to food security and economic development.
The 2026 World Food Day celebration is expected to highlight the role of innovation, research, and sustainable agricultural practices in building resilient food systems for present and future generations.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
