Innovation, market-driven agriculture key to feeding Lagos, says Sanwo-Olu

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday said that despite Lagos’ small landmass, the state government continues to stimulate innovations in the agriculture sector to enhance food supply. He spoke at the Lagos Agrinnovation Summit 2.0, held at Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme, “Thriving Systems for a Smarter Future.”

The governor, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube, noted that the agriculture value chain extends beyond planting and harvesting. He said the state government, in partnership with the private sector and young innovators, is well-positioned to boost food production for Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of market-driven value, saying, “Innovation is at the heart of the President’s strategy and at the heart of the state’s strategy. We believe in investing and partnering with the private sector in food systems and logistics. Lagos is the biggest market in West Africa, and we must mobilise the people of Lagos to produce for Nigeria.”

He emphasised Lagos’ unique positioning as Africa’s largest food market and the potential of young people to innovate. “Historically, we thought that where land is limited, agricultural production is limited, but with innovation, drive, and determination, we can achieve what was once thought impossible,” the governor said.

Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube, added that partnerships are essential for sustaining food security. “Because Lagos thrives when we partner together, we are bringing innovators together to grow outcomes and ensure food security in a state-run manner for Lagos and for Nigeria,” he said.

The keynote speaker, Sterling Bank Managing Director Abubakar Sulaimon, noted that the greatest value in agriculture occurs during consumption. “Lagos serves over 50 million people, and the real value happens when people touch the food. Agriculture does not end in the farm; it ends on the plate,” he said.

Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, said her vision is to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry and that food is fresh, affordable, and grown close to home. She highlighted the importance of youth-led innovation in transforming how Lagos produces, processes, distributes, and consumes food.

Olusanya further explained that the Agrinnovation Club is central to the “Produce for Lagos” programme, which connects rural producers to urban markets and strengthens the production base. She said the energy and creativity of Lagos youth are key to making the state’s agricultural transformation a lasting success.