Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday announced the launch of the ‘Produce for Lagos’ programme, a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering food security and agricultural self-reliance within Lagos State and across Nigeria.
The programme is backed by a substantial ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund, signalling a significant push to develop a robust, localised food supply chain.
In a statement posted on his X page, Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’s pivotal role as Nigeria’s largest food market, consuming over half of the food traded in the South-West region.
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He noted the state’s food economy is valued at more than ₦16 trillion, underscoring both existing demand and vast opportunities for local agricultural growth.
The ‘Produce for Lagos’ program is designed to create direct links between farmers and producers and the expansive Lagos market.
Key components include guaranteed product offtake, simplified access to financing, and crucial logistical support.
The governor emphasised that the initiative is set to boost food production, generate employment, reduce post-harvest waste, and enhance livelihoods within the agricultural sector.
This ambitious undertaking is a collaborative effort between the state government and the private sector, implemented through the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company, with additional support from Lagos Bulk Trading Company, Ekolog, and the Produce for Lagos Fund.
To ensure efficient distribution, a fleet of 150 cold and dry trucks, described as the largest of its kind in the country, has been deployed to facilitate safe and timely food transport.
The accompanying ₦500 billion fund is specifically structured to attract private investment, mitigate financial risks for participants, and provide essential financing for traders, transporters, and farmers.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that while effective policy is vital, tangible funding and consistent follow-through are critical for achieving real impact.
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Sanwo-Olu extended an invitation to partners, other state governments, investors, banks, and development agencies to collaborate on the initiative.
He urged all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to join forces to ‘feed Lagos and build a food system that truly lasts.’
