In a move to enhance food security, support local farmers, and boost agricultural productivity, the Lagos State Government has officially launched the Produce for Lagos programme, alongside a ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund.
The initiative, championed by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, was aimed at connecting farmers across Nigeria directly to the vast Lagos food market by guaranteeing offtake, improving access to finance, and providing logistical support to ease the transportation of agricultural produce.
During the event in Lagos, the Governor said: “Lagos is the biggest food market in Nigeria, consuming more than half of the food traded in the South-West. Our food economy is valued at over ₦16 trillion.
“This programme is about real impact, growing food, creating jobs, cutting waste, and ensuring more Nigerians can earn a decent living from agriculture.”
He called on investors, state governments, banks, development agencies, and stakeholders to join the vision.
To support the movement of produce efficiently across the state and beyond, the government also commissioned 150 LNG-powered utility trucks,the largest fleet of its kind in Nigeria for both cold and dry food transport.
The Produce for Lagos initiative is being implemented through a public-private partnership, spearheaded by the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company, with support from Lagos Bulk Trading Company, Ekolog, and the Produce for Lagos Fund.
Six governors,representing Ogun, Kogi, Niger, Kwara, Taraba, and Ekiti States graced the event and pledged their support to the programme, signaling a strong inter-state collaboration.
The event featured goodwill messages from key dignitaries, including the Chief of Air Staff, Minister of Digital Economy Bosun Tijani, Minister for Livestock, and Netherlands Consul General, Mikeal Deleen.
The Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Otunba Femi Oke on behalf of the association expressed deep appreciation to the Lagos State Government
AFAN pledged to ensure the programme’s success and proper implementation at the grassroots level.
“The ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund is not just a policy statement; it’s a practical step to de-risk investment in agriculture and attract private capital across the value chain.
“No Farmer, No Nation,” he concluded.
