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By Mercy Omoike/ Oluwatope Lawanson
The Lagos State Government has empowered 26 agriprenuers with a N100 million grant to boost food production and security in the state.
This was disclosed at the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems’ Agrinnovation Summit 1.0, on Thursday, in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit with the theme: “Shaping Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems for the Next Generation”, represents the state government’s commitment to build an agricultural sector that serves as the backbone of the economy.
The 26 recipients were selected through a rigorous process from the Agrinnovation Club which later grew into the Lagos Agrithon.
In his address, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state’s Head of Service, Mr Tayo Ayinde, urged the recipients to utilise the grants to ensure sustainable agribusinesses and food security.
“We gather here today with one purpose: to build sustainable agriculture and food systems for the next generation, and to ensure that Lagos not only sustains itself but leads Nigeria and Africa toward food security and agricultural excellence.
“As a government, we understand that agriculture development depends on more than just traditional practices. It requires us to embrace technology, foster collaboration, and create sustainable practices that will endure.
“I want to commend in particular, the creation of the Lagos Agrinnovation Club. This club is not just an initiation, it has become a community of young agripreneurs, a hub of creativity, and a platform for those who dare to reimagine agriculture.
“Out of the Agrinnovation Club grew the Lagos Agrithon, a testament to the power of innovation and opportunity.
“This years Agrithon saw 316 business case entries from dynamic startups, championed by young people who are driven by their vision to transform agriculture, and building sustainable solutions.
“The 26 finalists we honour today have not only made it through a rigorous selection process but have also shown us that the future of food in Lagos is bright.
“With access to mentorship, networks, and a share of the N100 million Agrinnovation fund, these entrepreneurs will have the resources to take their enterprise solutions further,” Sanwo-olu said.
He also reiterated that the recipients would be monitored to ensure justifiable use of the grants.
“With the collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, LSETF and Eko Innovation Centre, will monitor and evaluate the activity of the 26 entrepreneurs for the next nine months to see how these businesses are growing.
“To our Agrithon finalists, I urge you to put this funding to excellent use, as you’ve demonstrated through your impressive and innovative ideas,” he said.
On her part, Ms Abisola Olusanya, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, called for the onboarding of more young people as major players in the agric sector.
“We would like to appreciate everyone for being here and especially our jurors, they did a fantastic job helping us with the selection process, from 316 business entries and bringing it down to 26 finalists.
“We are here to celebrate these young agriculture entrepreneurs, who have not waited for the government to give them opportunities but have looked within themselves and other for inspiration.
“They have made of themselves and of their enterprises something to be proud of and we are proud to be in association with them.
“They have shown that agriculture is a pathway to us being prosperous as a nation.
“These agriprenuers have shown that passion, connectivity, and we are gathered to celebrate them, showing other people who want to come into the agric space.
“We want newcomers to know that there is a lot to gain in the agric. space, and particularly in the direction that the government of Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu is going, there is enough to unearth in the coming months.
“It is up to the newcomers to come in and plug into what is happening in the sector,” Olusanya said.
In his closing remarks , the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, urged the Agrithon finalists to make good use of the opportunities in the sector.
“To all the young innovators and Agrithon finalists, let me say this: you are the heartbeat of Lagos’ agricultural future. Your ideas, your ambition, and your resilience inspire us all.
“Today, you have shown us what is possible when we bring technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurial spirit into agriculture.
“You are proof that Lagos is more than capable of leading Nigeria and Africa toward a food-secure and sustainable future.
“As we leave here today, let us carry forward the knowledge, connections, and inspiration we have gained.
“Let us build on the momentum created here and work together to turn these innovative ideas into practical, sustainable solutions for our communities,” Fashola said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
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