Lagos, epicentre of agribusiness – Sanwo-Olu

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed Lagos State’s position as Africa’s leading hub for agribusiness, industrialization, and sustainable food packaging, urging investors and stakeholders to seize the opportunity to form strategic partnerships and drive sustainable growth in agro-processing and packaging sectors.

He made this declaration on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the 10th Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria Conference and Exhibition, held at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island.

In his keynote address, delivered by the Secretary to the Government of Lagos State, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted Nigeria’s projected emergence as Africa’s largest consumer market by 2050, noting that the conference plays a significant role in shaping the nation’s future.

“This platform is not just an exhibition—it is a catalyst for innovation, technology, and investment in agro-processing, food production, packaging, and plastics. Lagos remains the commercial and economic nerve centre of Nigeria and West Africa, and as of today, it is the second-largest economy in Africa,” he stated.

Sanwo-Olu emphasized Lagos’ strategic importance in agribusiness, citing the state’s vibrant consumer market, expanding industrial base, and ongoing infrastructural developments that support food processing and sustainable packaging solutions. “Lagos is a prime destination for investment, and we are committed to creating an enabling environment that attracts both local and foreign investors,” he said.

The Governor highlighted key initiatives under the state’s THEMES Plus Developmental Agenda, which prioritizes industrialization, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability. He also noted that the event features over 100 exhibitors from 15 countries, alongside key players in the agricultural, food processing, packaging, and plastics industries, as well as transformative projects driving Lagos’ food security and industrial advancement.

Expressing optimism about the conference’s impact, Sanwo-Olu stated that it would foster groundbreaking discussions, innovative solutions, and new opportunities that will shape the future of agribusiness, food security, and environmental sustainability in Nigeria and Africa.

The Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria 2025 event is set to feature high-level discussions, cutting-edge exhibitions, and networking opportunities, reinforcing Lagos’ status as the premier destination for investment in Africa’s agribusiness and manufacturing sectors.