The Lagos State Government has begun registering farmers under its new “Produce for Lagos” initiative, a flagship programme aimed at boosting food security, strengthening agricultural value chains, and cutting the state’s heavy reliance on imported food.
Launched with a ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund, the scheme is designed to guarantee bulk food purchases from farmers, improve logistics, and ensure fair pricing. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a bold step to “make Lagos a hub of agricultural productivity and food sufficiency.”
To drive implementation, the state has set up Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), including the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company (LAFSINCO), the Lagos Bulk Trading Company, and Eko Logistics, which will handle aggregation, distribution, and transport.
Private sector support has also been strong. Business leader Tony Elumelu recently committed ₦25 billion through Heirs Holdings to back the project, highlighting the role of partnerships in transforming Lagos’ food system.
While registration of farmers is ongoing, officials say the programme will prioritise organised cooperatives and farm clusters across crop and livestock value chains. The state government has not yet disclosed the number of farmers enrolled, but sources indicate that thousands are expected to benefit as the rollout progresses.
Analysts note that if fully implemented, Produce for Lagos could lower food prices, create jobs, and make the state less vulnerable to external supply shocks.
