The Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has been honoured with the prestigious “National Agritourism Patron of the Year” award at the inaugural World Agritourism Festival 2025. The award, presented by Xtralarge Farms and Resources, recognized the minister’s exceptional leadership in promoting the fusion of agriculture and tourism as a vehicle for economic growth and national sustainability.

The award ceremony, held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in Lagos, celebrated Senator Abdullahi’s pivotal role in championing initiatives that align with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for agricultural transformation. Organizers of the festival lauded the minister for his strong advocacy and policy support, which they said were instrumental in making the pioneering event a reality.

In his acceptance speech, Senator Abdullahi dedicated the honour to Nigeria’s farmers, particularly women and youth, whom he described as the “driving force behind the nation’s agricultural revolution.” He highlighted the immense potential for growth in the agritourism sector, which he noted could serve as a powerful tool for economic diversification and rural development.

“There is enormous room for growth,” Senator Abdullahi said. “With innovation, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, Nigeria’s agricultural future is bright. This festival is a pioneering model that integrates agribusiness with tourism and national development.”

The minister also called for the establishment of a national technical committee to develop a comprehensive framework for agritourism in Nigeria, pledging continued government support and investment. He cited examples from countries like Italy, South Africa, and the United States, where agritourism has successfully stimulated rural economies and boosted farmers’ incomes through farm stays, festivals, and educational programs.

The inaugural World Agritourism Festival brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including farmers, agribusiness experts, policymakers, and private sector leaders. Other dignitaries honoured at the event included the First Lady of Ogun State, Dr. Bamidele Abiodun, and the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mrs. Ruth Bisola Olusanya, for their contributions to the sector.

Dr. Seyi Davis, the founder of Xtralarge Farms and Resources, stated that the festival aimed to “reimagine agriculture as a dynamic driver of sustainability, empowerment, and tourism.” The event showcased how the sector can be a powerful economic engine, creating wealth and jobs while preserving cultural heritage and connecting communities.