As part of its commitment to transforming agriculture and building a sustainable food system, the Lagos Ministry of Agriculture & Food Systems department in collaboration with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) and Eko Innovation Centre, supported by the Lagos State Government has awarded N100 million in grants to 26 young agripreneurs at the maiden edition of the Lagos Agrinnovation Summit.
The platform is designed to foster meaningful conversations, collaboration, and groundbreaking innovations within the agricultural sector. With the theme, ‘Shaping Sustainable Agriculture and Food System for the Next Generation’, this gesture reiterates the government’s commitment to boost food security and production in the state, as well as serves as the backbone of the economy.
In his address, the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, stated that the state would not stop until she achieved food security and production serving as an example to other parts of the nation and Africa.
He also said that the gesture was a symbol of what the state can achieve when it trusts the youth to lead and supports them in doing so.
His words, “We gather here with the purpose to build sustainable agriculture and food systems for the next generation and to ensure that Lagos not only sustains itself but leads Nigeria and Africa towards food security and agricultural excellence.
“As a government, we understand that agriculture development depends on more than just traditional practices. It requires us to embrace technology, foster collaboration and create sustainable practices that endure.
“This year’s Agrithon saw 316 business case entries from dynamic startups, championed by young people who are driven by their vision to transform agriculture and build sustainable solutions.
“The 26 finalists we honored today have not only made it through a rigorous selection process but have also shown us that the future of food in Lagos is bright. With access to mentorship, network, and share of the N100 million Agrinnovation Fund, these entrepreneurs will have the resources to take their enterprise’s solutions further”.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Abisola Olusanya, Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems of Lagos State, expressed her appreciation to all in attendance and especially to the jurors who worked tirelessly in the selection process of the 26 finalists.
“We are here to celebrate young entrepreneurs who have not waited for the government to give them opportunities but have looked within themselves and others for inspiration. They have made themselves and their enterprises something to be proud of and we are proud to be associated with them”.
One of the finalists and beneficiaries of the grant, Jumamai Abalaka, Founder and COO of PricePally who won Seven million naira expressed her gratitude to the Lagos State government stating that the grant would assist in taking her business to the next level.
Dada Oyindamola, a Co-founder of Homal Foods said she was excited to have been considered one of the winners of the competition after such intense pitching sessions from several innovative businesses in the state.
She said the money won would help them to rescale the business as they would be able to produce goods on a larger scale.
The Lagos Agrinnovation Summit 1.0 marks a significant milestone in Lagos State’s mission to foster a sustainable and resilient agricultural & food systems sector. Through this landmark event, the state government has not only provided vital funding but also a platform for young agripreneurs. As these promising agripreneurs continue their journey, the state looks forward to seeing their contributions shape the future of food security and sustainability in Lagos and beyond.
Source:The Nation
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