Lagos Unveils N500 Billion ‘Produce for Lagos’ Programme to Revolutionize Agriculture and Strengthen Food Security

The Lagos State Government has officially launched the Produce for Lagos Offtake Guarantee Fund & Programme, a transformative initiative set to reshape Nigeria’s agricultural future and bolster food security nationwide.

Kicking off on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the programme is a dynamic public-private partnership led by the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company. It is specifically crafted to empower smallholder farmers, reduce post-harvest losses, enhance access to fresh produce, and boost agricultural productivity.

Described by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems as a “visionary step toward building a resilient and inclusive food system,” the initiative introduces a ₦500 billion guaranteed offtake fund—a safety net ensuring that farm produce will be purchased and effectively distributed. This guarantee secures income for farmers and agri-processors while promoting consistent supply across markets.

Programme coordinators emphasized that the initiative is focused on scaling mass food production, while also enhancing logistics, storage, and market access. “We want to make sure that fresh, healthy, and affordable food reaches every household,” they said.

A standout component is EKOLOG, the programme’s logistics solution aimed at eliminating post-harvest spoilage. Through temperature-controlled trucks and a coordinated delivery network, EKOLOG will preserve food quality from farm to market.

Other key elements include bulk produce aggregation, structured market access, and job creation opportunities, all with the goal of fostering a food-sovereign Nigeria.

“This is a call to action,” organisers declared. “From farmers and aggregators to distributors and financiers, everyone has a role to play.”

With this ambitious launch, Lagos State underscores its commitment to sustainable food innovation, inclusive economic growth, and the transformation of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.