The Lagos State Government has announced plans to distribute affordable bags of rice across the state during the festive period. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this declaration at the 5th Lagos Food Festival held on Sunday evening at Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the governor emphasized that the festival’s primary objective was to support food producers and promote their businesses. He highlighted how the event creates opportunities for stakeholders in the food industry to connect with valuable contacts.
“The event is not just about food; it’s about the dignitaries who visit, giving people the opportunity to launch their products and exhibit their skills,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Expressing his satisfaction with the event’s success, he added, “I am extremely happy today because of the patronage.
People now come to the event, make presentations, and form meaningful connections. This is another government-private sector collaboration and one of the many things that make Lagos unique.”
The governor also commended the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems for its commitment to the program.
He recalled that the initiative struggled to gain traction in its early years but has now grown into a flagship event that attracts notable personalities and businesses from within and outside Lagos.
Meanwhile, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, disclosed that the government is set to roll out Eko Rice at reduced prices within the next week and a half.
“Eko Rice will be available in the market within the next week and a half. Some quantities are already in circulation, but more will follow soon.
“It will definitely be cheaper than the current market price, though it will reflect production costs. Nonetheless, I assure you it will still be more affordable,” Olusanya said.
She explained that the food festival was part of the government’s end-of-year celebrations aimed at supporting all actors in the food value chain, including farmers, traders, and consumers.
“The 5th Lagos Food Festival is a platform to celebrate and promote everyone involved in food production and distribution. From farmers to market traders, this event brings all stakeholders together,” she noted.
Olusanya also spoke about the state’s ongoing five-year agricultural program designed to make food prices more affordable. She reiterated the government’s efforts to enhance market infrastructure and support farmers to ensure food remains accessible to Lagosians.
“With the infrastructure we’re building and the support we’re providing to farmers, we are working diligently to lower food prices. We remain committed to helping Lagosians in this regard,” she assured.
The Lagos Food Festival continues to serve as a vibrant platform for culinary exhibitions, business networking, and showcasing the state’s diverse food culture.
