By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Thee Lagos state government has introduced the Last Mile Meat Shops and Butchers Academy. This initiative, unveiled by the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, aims to ensure that meat reaches consumers in the safest and most appealing condition.
At the launch event in Alausa, Ms. Olusanya described the initiative as a way to instill confidence in residents about the quality of their meat while also modernizing the industry to attract younger generations. “The initiative is designed to correct the erroneous impression that butchery is reserved for the unenlightened,” she stated.
The pilot scheme features 20-foot containers that can be relocated as needed. Each shop will be managed by four young individuals, who will handle meat processed under hygienic conditions at approved government abattoirs.
Ms. Olusanya emphasized the importance of private-sector collaboration to expand the initiative, with plans to upgrade to 40-foot containers. Reflecting on the project’s origins, she explained that it is part of the Lagos State Agriculture Roadmap, initially targeting 20 meat shops but starting with five in the pilot phase.
This initiative follows the successful overhaul of meat transportation through the introduction of the Eko Meat Van, which replaced unwholesome practices.
Hon. Emmanuel Olotu, Chairman of the Lagos House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, praised the ministry for bringing innovative ideas that improve food safety and comfort for residents. He urged butchers to apply their training from the Butchers Academy diligently.
Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, highlighted the quality control measures, noting that all meat shops would sell by weight for consistency.
Permanent Secretary Emmanuel Audu stressed the importance of food safety, recalling that the COVID-19 outbreak originated in an animal market. He lauded the Last Mile Meat Shops for addressing safety and quality in meat distribution.
Alhaji Kazeem Bakare, Chairman of the Lagos State Butchers Association, welcomed the project as a significant innovation for his members, hoping it would restore dignity to the profession.
Apostle Olawale Talabi, Managing Director of Palilar Pal Meat International, expressed gratitude to the governor and commissioner for their vision, noting the project’s potential to enhance hygienic standards and profitability for butchers.
The Last Mile Meat Shops are currently located in Ijeh, Dolphin Estate, Surulere, and Mushin, with plans for further expansion across Lagos.