Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has positioned Lagos as a national asset that plays a crucial role in Nigeria's economic transformation, describing it as the largest market in sub-Saharan Africa.
The governor made this declaration during the Lagos Agri-Innovation Summit 2.0, which carried the theme "Thriving Food Systems: Smart Future" and took place at Harbour Point on Victoria Island.
Agricultural Innovation as Development Strategy
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that his administration must leverage innovation, technology, and strategic partnerships to enhance productivity throughout the agricultural value chain. He reaffirmed that food security remains a central pillar of his government's development strategy, aligning with President Bola Tinubu's national vision for sustainable economic growth and stability.
Represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube, the governor stated: "Food security is at the heart of President Tinubu's strategy and also central to Lagos State's development plan. Our goal is to inspire Lagosians to lead Nigeria forward."
Despite Lagos having limited land resources, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the state's continued investment in innovation-driven solutions that boost food production and distribution systems. He pointed to global examples where technology has enabled significant agricultural productivity even in dense urban environments.
"With innovation, energy, and determination, Lagos can achieve what once seemed impossible," the governor added optimistically.
Government Initiatives for Sustainable Food Systems
The governor outlined several state government initiatives designed to create sustainable food systems from production to market delivery. These include:
- The Lagos Aquatic Centre for Excellence
- Comprehensive logistics upgrades
- Enhanced agricultural education programs
Sanwo-Olu explained that the Agri-Innovation Summit serves as an important platform for collaboration, competitions, and targeted support for young innovators, ultimately driving long-term food security for both Lagos and Nigeria at large.
Youth Empowerment in Agriculture
In her welcome address, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems Abisola Olusanya revealed that the Lagos Agri-Innovation Club, now in its second year, has experienced significant growth by connecting young entrepreneurs with the state's agricultural transformation agenda.
She highlighted the "Produce for Lagos" Fund, launched earlier in the year, which finances activities across the agricultural value chain. This initiative is complemented by other programs such as the Lagos Food Festival and the Lagos Entrepreneurship Programme.
"Our vision is that no child in Lagos goes to bed hungry. We're empowering young innovators to drive food security through rooftop farming, waste-to-feed projects, and tech-enabled food solutions," Commissioner Olusanya stated.
The Commissioner detailed how the Agrinnovation Club was specifically created to bridge the gap between young agripreneurs and Lagos State's broader agricultural transformation agenda. She mentioned several supporting initiatives:
- The Ekoflavors culinary initiative
- The yearly Lagos Food Festival for food creatives
- The Lagos Agripreneurship Programme (L.A.P)
- The Lagos Agric Scholars Programme reimagining agricultural knowledge delivery in schools
These programs are crucial components of the Ministry's Agricultural and Food Systems Roadmap launched in 2021, which outlines the long-term strategy to make Lagos self-sufficient in wholesome, nutritious, and safe food.
Commissioner Olusanya expressed excitement about witnessing young innovators transforming rooftops into farms, converting waste into animal feed, and creating technology platforms that connect farmers with buyers within seconds.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, highlighted his ministry's role in empowering youth through ICT training, entrepreneurship development, and remote job opportunities. He revealed that the Lagos Agri-Innovation Fund has made available up to N150 million for creative agricultural ventures.
