Since 2019, the Lagos State Government has empowered 151,595 agribusinesses and trained over 100,000 farmers through its Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, made this statement during Tuesday’s Ministerial Press Briefing in Lagos.
Olusanya claimed that the ministry had made notable progress under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership.
“Today, we reflect on the transformative journey of the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems over the past six years, under the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The government’s mission has been clear: to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food system that ensures food security for all Lagosians,” he said.
According to Olusanya, this mission is anchored on a four-pronged strategy, which includes domestic sufficiency, upcountry partnerships, development of food storage and logistics capabilities, and development of market infrastructure and systems.
“These strategic pillars have translated into tangible achievements across six key areas, particularly training and capacity building. Over 100,500 farmers and fishermen have been trained in modern agricultural practices, enhancing productivity and livelihoods,” Olusanya said.
“Lagos residents can expect a significant reduction in food prices due to integrated facilities such as cold and dry storage, a 14,000-capacity abattoir, and a jetty designed for streamlined goods transportation.”
“Additionally, among the infrastructure provided by the state government in the sector is the establishment of the Middle Level Agro-Produce Hub at Idi-Oro, Mushin, where food valued at N2,641,709,989 has been traded.”
“Sites have also been identified for three more Mid-Level Hubs in Ikorodu, Festac Town, and Lekki Phase 1,” she added.
Speaking on financing agribusinesses and agripreneurs in the state, she noted that about 151,595 agribusinesses had been empowered over the past six years.
“Through the state government’s Agric. Financing and Enterprise Support initiatives, 151,595 agribusinesses have received support in the form of grants, inputs, tools, and advisory services, enabling them to scale sustainably,” she said.
The commissioner also emphasized the government’s focus on Public-Private Partnerships and collaborations, including the Lagos Central Food Systems and Logistics Hub.
“This hub is structured under a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-and-Transfer model, which encourages private sector participation while ensuring the long-term sustainability and professional management of the facility,” she explained.
She highlighted the state government’s resolve to guarantee food security, pointing out that the progress achieved in the previous six years demonstrates their steadfast commitment to changing the agricultural landscape of Lagos State.
“We have established a strong basis for a food-secure and economically thriving Lagos through strategic planning, strong partnerships, and community engagement.”
“The government is committed to making sure that no Lagosian is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable food systems and economic prosperity,” she said, looking to the future.
Source: Nairametrics
Image Credit: X
