Food safety and security remain critical priorities for agribusinesses worldwide, impacting public health, business reputations, and economic stability. Addressing these issues requires innovative solutions to reduce food loss and waste while ensuring sustainable resource use.
Lagos State, Nigeria, is taking bold steps to lead by example, transforming its food systems under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
During a recent visit to the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Park (LHP) in Ketu, Ereyun, Epe, Governor Sanwo-Olu outlined his plans to boost Lagos’ food security infrastructure from its current 18% to over 50%. Spearheaded by the Origin Tech Group, the 220-hectare facility is set to become Africa’s largest food logistics hub and the second largest globally, rivaling the Rungis International Market in France.
The state-of-the-art facility aims to revolutionize Lagos’ food ecosystem by enhancing accessibility, stabilizing market prices, and minimizing post-harvest losses.
“This hub represents a pivotal step toward achieving food sufficiency and affordability for Lagosians,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by mid-2025, reflecting the administration’s commitment to addressing food supply challenges.
An Infrastructure Masterpiece
The LHP is not just a market; it’s a comprehensive food logistics hub equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure. It includes a 14,000-capacity abattoir, 11 football fields’ worth of dry storage, a 250mm dual carriageway for efficient logistics, and a jetty for waterway transportation. These features will ensure seamless distribution and reduce food wastage across Lagos and its bordering communities.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the significance of the project, noting its potential to stabilize food prices and mitigate economic disruptions. Satellite hubs in Ajah, Agege, Oregun, and Ikorodu will serve as distribution points, creating a city-wide network that connects directly to the LHP in Epe.
This transformative initiative is set to bolster Lagos’ agricultural value chain, generate thousands of jobs, and position the state as a leader in sustainable food systems across Sub-Saharan Africa. “We are writing our destiny with this initiative,” said Sanwo-Olu. “This hub will transform Lagos’ food systems, stabilize prices, and provide Lagosians with the food sufficiency and adequacy they deserve.”
The project demonstrates Lagos’ commitment to reducing food insecurity through innovation and sustainable practices. By optimizing supply chains, the hub addresses long-standing challenges like inefficiencies in food distribution and the high cost of perishables.
The LHP serves as a model for other states and countries aiming to address food security challenges. The partnership between Lagos State and Origin Tech Group showcases the potential for public-private collaborations to drive economic growth and sustainable development.
By integrating modern infrastructure with strategic planning, Lagos is solidifying its status as an economic powerhouse while tackling critical food security issues. This initiative is not just about feeding the present population; it’s about creating a resilient system capable of meeting future demands.
