IBRAHIM QUADRI

The Lagos State Government is to launch N500bn flagship agricultural initiative, the ‘Produce for Lagos’ Programme, a bold effort designed to reshape Nigeria’s food distribution and security landscape.

The programme, slated for launch on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, is aimed at connecting agricultural producers from across Nigeria with Lagos — one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic food markets.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food System, Ms Abisola Olusanya, gave the revelation during a press briefing on Monday, at Alausa, Ikeja.

The programme is in collaboration with some states and the private sector to block loopholes that give rise to food prices.

According to the Commissioner, it has been a long time coming up with the initiative since six years ago to have a Lagos that is food secure as the largest market for sub-Saharan Africa.

To achieve this goal, the Commissioner explained there are two approaches: Produce in Lagos and Produce for Lagos.

As regard, ‘Produce in Lagos,’ she highlighted a number of agricultural initiatives already in place to address food shortages, such as ounje Eko, trader money, food hubs, among others.

However, ‘Produce for Lagos’ initiative is tailored towards collaboration because the state is disadvantaged when it comes to landmass.

Olusanya explained that ‘Produce for Lagos’ focuses on external partnership. “We need states like Niger, which has the largest arable land in the country, as well as Kebbi. We want to have a continuous food supply. The partnership will dovetail to all the agricultural food chains.”

She added that the launch would address the production, marketing, distribution and logistics challenges. “It is going to be a legacy for us. We want to minimize post-harvesting losses.

“By bridging the gap between supply and demand, the initiative promises to usher in smarter logistics, inclusive economic growth, and a more resilient food value chain.

“A collaborative effort between the Lagos State Government and the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company, ‘Produce for Lagos’ is being positioned as a model for public-private partnerships in addressing systemic food challenges and driving sustainable development at scale.”

She cited a situation where almost half a truckload of tomatoes got rotten before landing in Lagos, which, according to her, contributed to food shortages and eventual exorbitant prices.

“It is about addressing logistics. It has effect on prices. Our goal is to continue to create jobs. We want food inflow into the State. Though food is coming into Lagos but the system is flawed. We have a lot of loopholes in the system and so the investors cannot connect properly.

“The programme will not only streamline agricultural supply but also unlock investment opportunities, support rural farmers, and ensure Lagos residents have access to fresh and affordable produce.

“As the countdown continues, citizens, producers, and investors alike are being called to join the movement and become part of a transformative shift in Nigeria’s agricultural future.”

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