By Esther Onyegbula

In a bold move to combat Nigeria’s growing food insecurity and rekindle national interest in agriculture, Xtralarge Farms and Resorts has launched the world’s first 90-Day World Agritourism Festival, set to begin on May 16, marking World Agri-Tourism Day. The announcement was made at a press conference held in Ikeja by Dr. Moji Davids, Managing Director of Xtralarge Farms and Resorts.

Citing declining youth engagement in farming and rising food prices, Dr. Davids described Nigeria’s agricultural sector as wearing “an apparel that epitomizes poverty,” with farming perceived as “hard, tedious, and boring.” She warned of an impending food crisis if urgent action is not taken. “Hopelessness, insecurity, and hardship have led to the abandonment of agriculture,” she said. “But if we rebrand farming, make it fun, profitable, and engaging, we can change the narrative.”

The festival, tagged AgriTourism Revolution, will run until August 12, 2025, featuring a packed calendar of activities aimed at reviving the agricultural sector by blending farming with leisure, culture, and tourism.

Highlights of the 90-day campaign include: Four virtual summits featuring speakers from the UK, US, Canada, Dubai, and other nations, focusing on innovative agri-tourism models. Two major roadshows in Lagos and Ogun States, each featuring a march of 1,000 youths advocating for sustainable agriculture. Four farm stays where professionals including musicians, doctors, bankers, and civil servants, will live and farm on-site for three days, earning “agripreneur” certification.

An agricultural conference and awards ceremony to be held at the Marriott Hotel, Lagos, on June 14, 2025, recognizing local and international champions of agriculture. Four “farmers’ market solidarity shows” at village markets, designed to directly reward small-scale farmers bypassed by traditional market systems. Hands-on training in 30 organizations, including schools, religious institutions, and corporate bodies, aimed at training 10,000 Nigerians at no cost on practical, home-based farming techniques.

“This is a revolution we’re leading,” said Dr. Seyi Davids, Chief Executive Officer of Xtralarge Farms. “We’re calling on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to join us in rebuilding the pride, dignity, and profitability of farming.”

Mr. Shola Ajayi, another Xtralarge Farms executive, emphasized the importance of integrating agriculture into everyday life. “We must farm in our backyards, schools, churches, mosques, and even on our balconies,” he said.

The initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those concerning food security, economic empowerment, and climate action. The organizers confirmed ongoing discussions with the Lagos and Ogun State governments, and noted early support from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Arts and Culture, and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.

In a strategic move to globalize the campaign, Dr. Moji Davids also announced international editions of the festival, with planned events in the UK (October 2025), Canada (March 2026), Australia (July 2026), Dubai, and Central Europe.

Xtralarge Farms’ signature facility, located in Long Ota, Idiroko, Lagos, is Nigeria’s largest luxury farm resort, combining agriculture with hospitality, education, and entertainment. The farm currently hosts school excursions, weddings, corporate retreats, and vacationers, offering immersive experiences with livestock, crop cultivation, and food processing.

The organization is currently self-funding the festival and is appealing for sponsorships, partnerships, and collaborations from individuals, corporate bodies, and international agencies.

“Let’s take Nigeria to the world stage through agri-tourism,” Dr. Davids urged. “Let’s rebrand farming, reward our farmers, and secure our future.”