By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The Lagos State Government has announced the reintroduction of the Ounje Eko 25% Food Discount Market Phase II, set to begin on September 1. This decision comes in response to widespread requests from residents eager to benefit from the initiative.
At a stakeholders meeting held on Wednesday in Alausa, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food System, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, confirmed the development. She highlighted the success of Phase I, which was implemented across 57 LGAs and LCDAs, including prominent areas like Lekki and Alausa.
Olusanya emphasized that the initiative is designed to cushion the effects of rising food prices, aligning with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to providing relief to Lagosians. With food inflation at 40.9%, the discount market aims to make essential food items more affordable for households struggling with high costs.
The second phase of the program will run for eight weeks, operating in 64 locations, including local government areas and major institutions like the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State University (LASU), and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). Markets will offer a range of food items such as rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and peppers, all sold at a 25% discount.
“Mr. Governor has approved the expansion of this initiative to help more residents as food inflation continues to rise,” Olusanya stated. The markets will be operational from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with designated days for different locations.
In a bid to enhance transparency, all transactions will be cashless, processed through payment service providers like MoMo PSB, Palmpay, and Smartcash PSB. The digital payment system is expected to improve accountability and convenience for shoppers.
Olusanya encouraged residents to stay informed via the Ounje Eko social media platforms and other media channels as the state continues to roll out more details about the initiative.