News in Brief:
– In a bid to bolster food security, Lagos and Niger states have joined forces through the Produce for Lagos initiative.
– This strategic partnership leverages Lagos’ organised market and Niger’s vast agricultural land to ensure a consistent supply of food for Lagos residents.
Lagos and Niger states have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the Produce for Lagos initiative. In a statement from the Lagos State government, the aim is to enhance food security, while creating a win-win situation for both regions.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger signed the MoU, highlighting the potential benefits for both states.
Sanwo-Olu lauded the partnership, describing it as a historic partnership between the biggest and the smallest states in the country, creating opportunities for our citizens.
Also, Governor Bago reiterated the potential for boosting economic activities in Niger State by leveraging Lagos’ organised markets.
Furthermore, the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, expressed optimism about the initiative. She stated that it would catalyse production, ensure price stability, and guarantee farmers’ profit.
Enhancing food distribution and storage infrastructure
Meantime, the first phase of the Food Security Systems and Central Logistics Park in Epe is due to be operational in December. It is expected to provide additional storage capacity for the anticipated increase in food supplies from Niger State. Existing middle-level hubs will be utilized in the interim for distribution.
Additionally, the agreement is expected to facilitate a consistent supply of fresh produce directly to Lagos’ state-owned food hubs, including the soon-to-be-completed Lagos Food Logistics Hub in Ketu Ereyun, Epe. This will ensure better access to essential food items for Lagos residents while stabilising prices through pre-production contracts, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
This long-term partnership aligns with the current administration’s focus on food security and aims to leverage the strengths of each state.
