Nigeria celebrated a first as agritourism took centre stage at the World Agritourism Festival 2025, held on Thursday, July 3, at the Balmoral Convention Center in Ikeja.
Hosted by Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, this 90-day event, themed “Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Through Tourism,” brings together farmers, agribusiness experts, policymakers, investors, and Nigerians in the diaspora to find new ways to boost agriculture and rural development.
Dr. Moji Davids, Managing Director of Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, said the event aims to change people’s perceptions of farming.
She noted that agriculture isn’t just for struggling locals; it can be a thriving, enjoyable business.
She shared how she and her husband, Dr Seyi Davids, the CEO of Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, left the United States years ago to start the business despite challenges and have succeeded through persistence.
Dr. Moji also invited more “ambassadors” to join agritourism, calling it a lucrative opportunity and actively seeking investors for future projects.
Speaking on the importance of global recognition, Dr. Seyi Davids outlined the significance of value addition, taking time to produce international-quality products, and packaging to succeed in agriculture.
Hon. Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, Chairperson of NiDCOM, represented by Dip Oyebowale, praised the festival as aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in agriculture, tourism and diaspora inclusion.
Dabiri‑Erewa encouraged the diaspora to back the event’s efforts and pledged continued support, hoping the festival would become an annual affair.
Key government figures also sent delegates: Dr. Romiti Fashola, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Agriculture Commissioner, was represented by Ogunleye Adedotun, and Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka from the Ministry of Culture and Food Security also attended in an official capacity.
Mr Ezekiel Solesi, CEO of LimbSimple Business Academy, spoke on managing agribusiness finances, stressing the need for farmers to calculate expenses to manage money well and carefully. He also emphasised the importance of farmers knowing how to sell their products.
Festival participants shared stories of financial growth, crediting Xtralarge’s model and helping them double their revenue.
The 90-day event will conclude with a Grand Summit, Awards ceremony, and Gala Night at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja on Friday, July 11, seeing widespread participation from both public and private sectors.
