News in Brief:
– Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu outlined initiatives to mitigate the economic hardship faced by residents.
– These include opening Sunday markets with discounted food items, identifying food vendors for community meals, establishing additional food hubs, and collaboration with the federal government to secure rice supplies.
As part of efforts to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship being experienced in the country, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has outlined measures to be taken by his administration, for the welfare of citizens resident in the state. The information was contained in the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the Lagos state government, as outcome of a media chat.
Addressing newsmen in the live media chat, the governor acknowledged the pains being felt by the generality of Nigerians, and assured of government’s proactive response to the situation. Sanwo-Olu noted the significance of resilience and creative thinking, as keys in navigating the trying times.
Additionally, the governor highlighted the importance of enhancing food security and other infrastructural changes towards achieving a stronger Lagos and Nigeria.
Specific policy measures announced
According to the governor, specific policy changes have been made with a view to proffering solutions to the issue of food crisis. These include:
- The opening of Sunday Markets in at least 42 identified markets across Lagos State. Residents will be able to buy food items at a discounted price. However, they would only need to be able to buy items worth up to â¦25,000.
- Lagos State to identify caterers and ‘Mama Put’ in each LGA to feed over 1,000 people per day in All LGAs (at least once a day).
- The establishment of four more food hubs, currently under construction, while seven other locations in various Local Governments have also been identified for the development of more food hubs.
- Lagos State currently in discussions with the Federal Government to be able to get two vessels of Paddy (from outside) for the Lagos Rice Mill to produce for almost a year.
Building on past initiatives for long-term food security
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s proactive measures address immediate concerns and lay the groundwork for long-term food security solutions. These initiatives build upon the Lagos State government’s previous efforts, such as the ‘Lagos Cares’ initiative, which provided food packages to vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Agricultural Value Chains Enterprise Activation Programme, which empowered farmers and boosted local food production.
By combining immediate relief with strategic investments, the Lagos State government demonstrates its commitment to mitigating the impact of economic hardship and ensuring long-term food security for its citizens.
