In a significant move, the Lagos State Government is set to disburse N750 million as part of the Lagos Trader Money program, benefiting 15,000 traders across 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas. The Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms Abisola Olusanya, confirmed the commencement of the disbursement this month during the Lagos Food Systems’ Champions Sensitization for Market Women event.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu initially revealed this financial intervention during the unveiling of the Mid-level Agro-Produce Hub at Idi-Oro, Mushin, in December 2023. The government’s initiative aims to support market men and women, with each beneficiary receiving N50,000.
Speaking to the press, Commissioner Olusanya emphasized the state’s commitment to creating additional food hubs to generate employment opportunities, particularly for women. The expansion of these hubs is expected to empower small farms and enhance the agricultural sector’s growth.
Apart from addressing waste management, the development of agri-food hubs is seen as a crucial step toward strengthening the state’s food security. Commissioner Olusanya highlighted that these hubs would also contribute to the development of agricultural exports, emphasizing the importance of enhancing product quality and exploring new markets.
In line with this initiative, proposed Fresh Food Agro-Hubs in Agege and Ajah, along with the Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub, are expected to open doors to markets. This move not only aims to increase agricultural output but also uplift the livelihoods of farmers and the broader community.