The Lagos State Government has announced its focus on innovation, technology, and sustainable practices to develop a resilient food system that can meet the needs of the state's growing population. This was stated by Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, at a press briefing in Lagos to unveil activities for the 2026 World Food Day celebration.
This year's World Food Day theme, "Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow," aligns with the state's food systems transformation agenda. According to Dr. Fashola, Lagos must explore smarter ways to increase agricultural productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, improve processing and storage, and strengthen food distribution networks. The goal is to ensure that Lagosians have access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.
The Lagos State Government has implemented several initiatives to strengthen the state's food ecosystem. These include the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub, Mid-Level Agro-Produce Hubs, Eko Rice through the Lagos Rice Mill, Imota, Lagos Aquaculture Centre of Excellence, and the Lagos Agripreneurship Programme. These initiatives aim to encourage greater participation of young people in agriculture and agribusiness.
The government has also launched the Ounje Eko and Produce for Lagos Offtake Guarantee Fund initiatives. These programs aim to improve the connection between farmers and consumers, strengthen local production, and support guaranteed markets for agricultural produce. The goal is to make food more accessible to residents.
The 2026 World Food Day celebration will feature a range of activities, including a road walk, the Lagos Agric Scholars Quiz Competition, and a grand finale with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu as the Special Guest of Honour. The events will showcase various agricultural produce and equipment, with 3,500 value-chain stakeholders expected to participate.
In 2025, over 2,000 farmers, agro-processors, food enthusiasts, and other stakeholders participated in the World Food Day celebration. During the event, 11 outstanding farmers across various agricultural value chains were honoured for their contributions to food production and food security. The government plans to continue collaborating with farmers, private-sector investors, and development partners to accelerate innovation and investment in the sector.
The Lagos State Government remains committed to deepening collaboration with stakeholders to drive growth in the agricultural sector. With a focus on innovation and technology, the state aims to build a sustainable food system that can meet the needs of its growing population. The 2026 World Food Day celebration serves as a platform to promote these initiatives and engage stakeholders in the drive towards a more resilient food system.
Key points
- The Lagos State Government is prioritizing innovation and technology to build a resilient food system.
- The 2026 World Food Day celebration will feature a range of activities to promote agricultural innovation and investment.
- The government has implemented several initiatives to strengthen the state's food ecosystem and encourage greater participation of young people in agriculture and agribusiness.
