The Lagos State Government has issued a unified appeal to address the escalating food inflation and the deepening hunger crisis affecting both Lagos and the broader Nigerian populace.
This urgent call was delivered by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during his keynote speech at the closing ceremony organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems. The event, which took place yesterday at the Police College Parade Ground, marked the celebration of World Food Day 2025.
Governor Sanwo-Olu underscored the significance of the occasion as a crucial reminder of the collective responsibility to eliminate hunger and malnutrition.
Through his official spokesperson, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, he conveyed, “The theme, ‘Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,’ highlights the vital cooperation among government bodies, private sector players, development partners, and local communities to transform agricultural food systems, encourage nutritious diets, and protect our environment.”
He also pointed out the unique challenges Lagos faces, stating, “Although Lagos is Nigeria’s smallest state in terms of land area, it is home to over 22 million residents, making it the most densely inhabited state in the country.”
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that feeding such a large population demands innovative strategies, significant investments, and strong partnerships.
“Our commitment is reflected in our ongoing support for food production initiatives, infrastructure development, and enhancements to market systems aimed at curbing rising food costs and establishing a sustainable food reserve management framework,” he added.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, described the event as an opportunity to highlight Lagos State’s agricultural strengths and to honor outstanding contributors within the food sector.
In collaboration with the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), the ceremony recognized several organizations for their exceptional efforts in advancing the state’s food sustainability objectives.
Among the honorees, Farm Junction received the Best Agro-Processor award, Erikorodo Poultry Association was named Best Farm Enterprise, and Ajara Farm Settlement was acknowledged as the Best Farm Settlement.
Additional awards included Best Livestock Champion, granted to Lagos Island Local Government, and Best Aquaculture Champion, awarded to Apapa Local Government, among others.
Yarub Al-Bahrani, a board member of BATNF, emphasized the importance of empowering farmers to create a resilient food system.
“The 2025 World Food Day theme, ‘Hand in Hand for Better Food and Better Future,’ aligns perfectly with BATNF’s mission. For more than twenty years, the foundation has been dedicated to uplifting rural communities and supporting smallholder farmers, laying a foundation for sustainable development,” he stated.
Al-Bahrani further stressed the value of public-private partnerships, noting, “Purchasing produce from local farmers not only strengthens our economy but also sustains the livelihoods of those committed to feeding our communities.”
He concluded by highlighting the shared duty in achieving food security: “Ensuring food security is a collective endeavor that requires the combined efforts of government, private sector, civil society, and individuals. It is a challenge that no single entity can tackle alone.”
World Food Day, observed globally every October 16, aims to raise awareness about hunger, food insecurity, and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to enhance food systems worldwide.