In celebration of World Food Day, Capacious Farms & Foods Ltd hosted the 2024 Junior Secondary School (JSS) Arts & Essay Contest Award Ceremony yesterday, with sponsorship from Adron Homes & Properties. The event, which took place at the Adron training School in Simawa, aimed to engage young minds in agriculture, creative arts, and essay writing to raise awareness about food security and sustainability.

The competition saw participation from 40 schools nationwide, each submitting entries focused on the future of agriculture and its role in combating food insecurity. After a rigorous judging process, five schools emerged as winners, with students from these schools receiving cash prizes, generously sponsored by the foremost real estate company in Nigeria, Adron Homes & Properties.

The Chief Operating Officer of Capacious Farms & Foods Chi Tola Roberts, emphasized the significance of the event in her address. “Commemorating World Food Day through this contest highlights the critical role agriculture plays in our society. Our goal is to spark an early interest in agriculture and equip students with the knowledge and motivation to pursue careers in the sector,” she stated. Roberts also announced that the contest would become an annual event, with promises of broader outreach and increased opportunities for students.

The chairman, Adron Group, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking spoke passionately about Nigeria’s agricultural history and the importance of returning to its roots. “Our nation was built on agriculture. Cocoa House, one of Nigeria’s landmarks, was funded through proceeds from cocoa farming. By supporting initiatives like this, we aim to inspire the next generation to see agriculture not only as our past but as our future,” he said. Emmanuelking reiterated Adron’s commitment to supporting youth engagement in agriculture, particularly through sponsorships like those awarded at this event.

Prof. Adesegun, Chairman of the Babcock University Schools Management Board, delivered a keynote speech on the global food crisis and the importance of youth involvement. “We are facing a global challenge in food security, and the youth must be at the forefront of finding solutions. This competition is a step in the right direction, as it encourages students to think critically about the future of food and agriculture,” he remarked.

The event provided a platform for young students to showcase their artistic and literary talents, exploring themes that align with the mission of World Food Day: ending hunger and ensuring food security for all. The five winning schools were awarded cash prizes, and their students were celebrated for their exceptional creative and analytical contributions.

Capacious Farms & Foods Ltd and Adron Homes & Properties have committed to making this competition an annual event, fostering a deeper connection between Nigeria’s youth and the agricultural sector.

Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former Ogun State governor and current senator representing Ogun East, will serve as the guest speaker at the annual Junior Chamber International (JCI) Ikeja Lecture.

The 2024 edition of the lecture, which also marks the 40th convention and the investiture of the 41st JCI Ikeja president, is themed “Boundless Bond: Thriving Together.” It will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Chrisland School, Opebi.

JCI Ikeja is an English-speaking chapter of Junior Chamber International, a global non-profit organisation of young people aged 18 to 40, with a mission to develop young leaders and create positive social change.

Otunba Daniel, recognised for his impactful tenure as Ogun State governor and his dedication to youth empowerment, will be hosted by JCIN Amb. Omowunmi Fakoya, the current president of JCI Ikeja.

The event’s dress code is purple and onion with a touch of gold, reflecting the elegance of the occasion.