In a strategic move to redefine the future of food security and economic diversification, the Lagos Agrinnovation movement has reaffirmed its commitment to equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and networks necessary to dominate the agribusiness sector.
The initiative, which serves as a catalyst for sustainable growth, recently held a high-level gathering aimed at sparking innovation across the state’s agricultural landscape.
Government Commitment to Economic Diversification
The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, lauded the resilience of young agripreneurs who are evolving to meet modern market demands. Addressing the attendees, she underscored that agriculture is no longer just a means of subsistence but a key driver for economic diversification and youth empowerment.
“The government is fully committed to creating an enabling environment where innovation can thrive and entrepreneurs have access to the resources needed to build sustainable businesses,” Olusanya stated, noting that the growth of young talent is central to the state’s developmental agenda.
Redefining Farming Through Technology and Value Creation
Echoing this sentiment, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, highlighted the evolution of the Agrinnovation community. He pointed out that the modern agricultural landscape in Lagos has shifted toward technology-driven value creation. He praised the creativity of the youth who are successfully scaling their ideas into impactful ventures, moving far beyond traditional farming methods.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, further assured participants that government policies are being translated into tangible opportunities. He revealed that through strategic partnerships with financial institutions, efforts are being intensified to improve access to funding, specialized training, and critical infrastructure.
Strategic Funding and Global Collaboration
Financial empowerment took center stage as representatives from the banking and employment sectors provided blueprints for expansion. Ms. Vera Ebhohon, Head of Agribusiness Development and Strategy at Sterling Bank Limited, provided practical insights into leveraging banking products to scale operations. Simultaneously, Mrs. Olufolake Ikupayi, representing the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), outlined specific strategies for accessing business support and government-backed credit lines.
The event also garnered international attention with the presence of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Survey Team. Their participation signals a growing global interest in the Lagos agribusiness ecosystem, potentially opening doors for cross-border collaboration, knowledge exchange, and foreign direct investment.
Preparing for a Rapidly Changing Global Market
As the event concluded, Mrs. Aramide Gansallo, Director for Agribusiness, urged the youth to remain proactive and adaptable. She emphasized that in a rapidly changing global environment, staying informed is the only way to safeguard business growth. She encouraged the Agrinnovators to stay ready for the opportunities that arise from the intersection of technology and food systems, ensuring Lagos remains at the forefront of agricultural excellence.
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