By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The Lagos State Government has affirmed its commitment to addressing the escalating cost of food items and consumables in the state, with measures such as the Market Trader Money initiative and the establishment of Food Logistics Hubs. Nike Sodipo, Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Agriculture, Lagos State, conveyed this assurance in a recent press statement.
Speaking at the conclusion of a two-day retreat for management staff of the Ministry held at Orchid Hotels in Lekki, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, outlined various initiatives aimed at curbing the high cost of food in the metropolis. She highlighted the recent launch of the Market Trader Money program, through which N750 million was distributed to 15,000 residents, as one of the measures taken to mitigate the impact of rising prices.
Olusanya further revealed plans for the imminent delivery of the first Food Logistics Hub in West Africa located in Ketu, with additional Agro Food Hubs slated for development in Agege, Abule Ado, and Sangotedo. Emphasizing the significance of the Mushin Agro Food Hub, which has begun to yield positive results in providing affordable food items within a hygienic environment, she urged residents to heed Governor Sanwo-Olu’s admonition against hoarding and unjustified price hikes.
Echoing the sentiment, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, commended the ministry staff for their unwavering support and urged them to redouble their efforts in implementing government policies. Against the backdrop of economic challenges facing the nation, Fashola emphasized the pivotal role of the ministry in achieving its agenda.
During the retreat, Dr. Adebowale Oyebade, a facilitator, underscored the importance of mental health awareness, noting the global prevalence of mental disorders exacerbated by economic downturns, unemployment, and social media influences. He urged participants to prioritize their health needs to optimize performance in their official duties.
Addressing the nexus between agriculture and the economy, a paper was presented on the Agricultural Economic Context in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for improved security around farmlands, incentives for farmers, and collaboration among states to enhance food production and distribution networks.