In a heartwarming move on Valentine’s Day, Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, launched the “Lagos Market Trader Money” initiative, delivering a financial boost of N750 million to 15,000 beneficiaries. The beneficiaries, each receiving N50,000, were carefully selected from diverse geographical zones across Nigeria but are all residents of Lagos.
The initiative, aimed at revitalizing economic activities in food markets, is a testament to Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to transforming the food systems in Lagos. The distribution ceremony, held at De Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, marked a swift fulfillment of the Governor’s promise made during the commissioning of the Mid-Level Agro Produce Hub on December 17, 2023.*
Expressing his vision to stimulate economic growth in line with the THEMES+ developmental agenda, Governor Sanwo-Olu encouraged beneficiaries to utilize the grant judiciously for the betterment of the state’s economic landscape.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the significance of the initiative as a temporary measure to empower small-scale traders in the food systems, fostering economic growth and improving livelihoods. He outlined the State’s ambitious Food Systems Transformation Agenda, aimed at promoting food preservation, storage, transportation, and presentation to address issues like food waste and enhance accessibility.*
Highlighting ongoing projects like the Lagos Central Food Security System and Logistics Hub, Ketu-Ereyun, Epe, and the Mid-Level Agro Produce Hub, Idi-Oro, Mushin, the Governor announced plans for three additional hubs at Sangotedo, Agege, and Abule-Ado. The first phase of the Lagos Central Food Security System and Logistics Hub is set for commissioning by December 2024.*
Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed the meticulous selection process for beneficiaries, involving Agricultural Field Officers, Iyaloja/Babaloja General, and Market Masters across Local Government Areas. A total of 15,000 beneficiaries were chosen from various geopolitical zones, with an emphasis on inclusivity.*
Ms. Abisola Olusanya, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, highlighted the initiative’s role in supporting livelihoods, wealth creation, and the expansion of the food and agricultural value chains. This initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Local Governments, is the first of many aimed at addressing citizens’ needs across various sectors.*
The Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Chief (Mrs.) Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, expressed gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for the thoughtful gesture and urged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity to enhance their businesses.*
This Valentine’s Day initiative reflects not only Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to economic development but also the spirit of love and inclusivity towards Lagos residents.*
