Africa’s largest food hub, psychiatric hospital to be ready by 2025 – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced that two major projects, the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Park, as well as a 500-bed psychiatric hospital, will be completed next year.

Both projects, located in Epe, are set to significantly impact food security and mental healthcare in Lagos and beyond.

During a working visit to inspect the projects on Saturday, Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the food logistics park would be operational by the second quarter of 2025, while the psychiatric hospital is scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of the year.

Explaining the vision behind the food hub, Sanwo-Olu said it was conceived five years ago to mitigate potential disruptions in food supply chains, a lesson learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID-19 taught us the importance of self-sufficiency. During that period, we saw how global disruptions in food logistics could cause insecurity. We realized Lagos needed a large-scale food logistics hub to protect itself,” he said.

The governor revealed that the hub, situated on over 230 hectares of land, would feature the largest cold and dry chain storage facility in sub-Saharan Africa. “This hub ensures food security for Lagos and reinforces the idea that food is a critical component of overall security,” he added.

On the psychiatric hospital, Sanwo-Olu highlighted its significance in promoting mental healthcare in Nigeria. The Lagos State Mental Health Institute, located in Ketu-Ejinrin, will be the largest psychiatric rehabilitation center in sub-Saharan Africa upon completion.

The facility, spanning 25 hectares, will feature 500 beds, consultation rooms, dormitories, dining areas, kitchens, and residences for healthcare workers. It will also include spaces for psychotherapy and psycho-rehabilitation in a serene environment.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the first phase of the project is approximately 50% complete, with all structures for the 500-bed accommodation already in place.

“The facility will offer world-class mental health services and serve as a rehabilitation center for patients requiring extended care,” he said.

He added that phase two would expand accommodation and rehabilitation facilities, further enhancing the institute’s capacity.

Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, stating, “This project represents a significant milestone in addressing mental health challenges in our society. We are committed to completing it within the next 12 months.”