Governor Babajide Sanwolu of Lagos State has launched the Produce for Lagos programs

Governor Babajide Sanwolu of Lagos State has launched the Produce for Lagos program, which includes a ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund, aiming to enhance food security, self-reliance, and agricultural growth in the region. The initiative is a strategic move to connect farmers and producers directly with the lucrative Lagos market, which is the largest food market in Nigeria with a food economy worth over ₦16 trillion. The program addresses key challenges in the agricultural value chain, such as access to finance and logistical support.

The Produce for Lagos program is a collaborative effort between the government and the private sector, with the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company playing a central role. It is supported by entities like the Lagos Bulk Trading Company and the Produce for Lagos Fund. This public-private partnership is crucial for ensuring the initiative's success and sustainability.

To facilitate the transportation and preservation of perishable goods, the state government has also introduced a fleet of 150 cold and dry trucks, the largest in the country, which will significantly improve the logistics of moving produce from farms to markets. This intervention will reduce spoilage and waste, thereby increasing the efficiency of the food supply chain.

The ₦500 billion fund serves as a catalyst to attract private investment, lower risk for stakeholders, and provide the necessary financing for traders, transporters, and farmers. This funding is essential for the realization of the program's goals. The government is reaching out to potential partners, including other state governments, investors, banks, and development agencies, to join in this effort to build a robust and lasting food system for Lagos and the nation.

By fostering a conducive environment for agricultural businesses to thrive, the program is expected to boost job creation, reduce food insecurity, and contribute to the overall economic development of the state. This holistic approach to agriculture underscores the importance of integrating various sectors to drive growth and improve livelihoods. The invitation to all stakeholders to participate in this endeavor signifies the collective responsibility and the collaborative spirit required to achieve food security and self-sufficiency in the long term.