Building on the success of the Ounje Eko Discount Market introduced last year and recognising the challenges faced by farmers, the Lagos State Government has unveiled Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme (Ounje Eko FSP) aimed at supporting agricultural production.
The initiative, considered as the first-of-its-kind in the state, is targeted at supporting farmers through a 25 per cent subsidy on animal feeds – poultry and fish, tractorisation services for crop production, as well as distribution of bags of fertilisers.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, who disclosed this during a press conference, said agricultural sector, particularly, livestock and aquaculture farming, has been under significant pressure owing to the rising cost of production inputs. She noted that poultry and fish feed alone account for over 70 per cent of production costs, leading to reduced farm operations and, in some cases, closures.
“This has not only affected farmers, but contributed to food inflation and reduced access to essential protein sources such as eggs, chicken and fish. Through the Ounje Eko Farmers Subsidy Programme, the Lagos State government seeks to provide direct financial relief to farmers through a 25 per cent subsidy on poultry and fish feeds; sustain and improve production levels, ensuring a steady supply of poultry and fish products in the market.
“Prevent further farm closures and mitigate food insecurity; strengthen the overall agricultural value chain in Lagos State by supporting farmers from production to market distribution. This intervention departs from past strategies where free input distribution led to diversion and inefficiencies. Instead, this subsidy model ensures accountability, proper targeting, and sustainable impact,” she said.
Olusanya added that the initiative is a crucial step in the broader agenda to reduce over-reliance on food imports and strengthen local food production, noting that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, faces unique challenges in food security owing to its heavy dependence on external food supplies.
“Security issues in food-producing regions, supply chain disruptions, and rising production costs have all contributed to food price volatility. “By empowering local farmers, the programme aligns with the Produce for Lagos Initiative, which focuses on increasing internal agricultural productivity. Additionally, this programme will help lay the groundwork for the Lagos State Central Food Security and Logistics Hub, ensuring seamless distribution of agricultural products across the state.”
To ensure the success of the programme, the commissioner said the state has put in place a robust implementation strategy. “Key components include: Targeted products and partners – Poultry feed (Layers Mash); Fish feed (3mm and 4mm),” noting that reputable feed millers such as Animal Care and Olam Nigeria Limited will be engaged.
She added that to achieve success, the ministry is partnering Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) Lagos Chapter; Lagos State Catfish Association of Nigeria (LASCAFAN); Registered farmers within farm settlements, noting that the designated discount market locations as Erikorodo Poultry Estate, Ikorodu; Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Araga, Epe; Aiyedoto Poultry Estate, Ojo; Coconut House, Mowo, Badagry; Farm Service Centre, Oko-Oba, Ikeja; and Fish Farm Estate, Odongunyan, Ikorodu.
“The programme will run every Wednesday from February 5 to February 26, 2025. Farmers will pay only 75 per cent of the cost, while the government subsidises the remaining 25 per cent.
“Pre-ordering and payment processes will be managed through farmer associations to ensure transparency. Vendors will deliver pre-ordered products to market locations for verification and distribution.”
Olusanya stressed that the launch of the initiative marks another milestone in the state’s commitment to ensuring food security, stabilising food prices, and empowering the farmers.
“This initiative will not only safeguard livelihoods but also reinforce Lagos State’s leadership in agricultural innovation and sustainability. “We call on all stakeholders—farmers, feed millers, security agencies, and the general public—to support and participate in this initiative. Together, we will build a more resilient food system, strengthen our agricultural sector, and guarantee a food-secure Lagos for all.”
