Group offers 50% food subsidy to ease hunger in Surulere LG

A non-governmental organization, the Inspire Lagos Food Market, an initiative led by Abiola Adebajo, is bringing relief to residents struggling with the rising cost of food in Lagos.

Speaking at the Inspire Lagos Food Market held recently at the Surulere Local Government Secretariat in Lagos, Adebajo said: “Food is really expensive at the moment, and the economy is tough.

“We are providing a 50% food subsidy on essential items, including rice, beans, yam, live chicken, and vegetable oil, vegetables to help families access nutritious food at a more affordable price. We aim to ensure that no one has to go to bed hungry, especially during these challenging times.”

The initiative, which targets low-income families and vulnerable individuals, has garnered significant support from local farmers and food vendors, allowing for the provision of fresh produce at reduced prices. Adebajo highlighted the importance of community collaboration, stating, “We believe that by working together, we can create lasting solutions to food insecurity in our neighborhoods.”

In addition to the food subsidy, the Inspire Lagos Food Market also offers education on nutrition and cooking methods to maximize the use of available resources. Through workshops and demonstrations, they aim to empower residents with the knowledge to prepare healthy meals on a budget.

Participants at the event expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting the relief it has provided in light of rising food prices. “This market has made a huge difference for my family,” said one local resident. “Being able to buy essential items at half the price has eased our burden tremendously.”

As the Inspire Lagos Food Market continues to expand, Adebajo emphasized the need for ongoing support and donations to sustain their efforts. “Together, we can create a hunger-free Lagos,” he concluded, encouraging more community members to get involved and support the cause.

To maintain fairness, organizers implemented a limit of ₦15,000 worth of goods per person and recorded each transaction. “This system ensures everyone benefits while preventing hoarding or reselling,” Adebajo explained.

The initiative collaborates with individuals, companies, and sponsors eager to make an impact. “We approach donors and VIPs to support us because this is a critical time to tackle hunger,” Adebajo added.

The Executive Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Bamidele Suleiman Yusuf, praised the collaboration, stating that the initiative has significantly reduced the burden of food costs for residents.

“Residents can now buy a 5kg bag of rice for ₦4,000 instead of the market price of ₦12,000. This is a significant relief, especially during the Yuletide season,” Yusuf said. “Over 400 bags of 50kg rice have been distributed, alongside other subsidized items.”

Yusuf urged beneficiaries to use the goods for personal consumption rather than reselling them for profit and assured them of the administration’s continued support.

He acknowledged the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians but called for patience with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “The President is aware of the people’s suffering, and his policies will yield positive results in time. We must stay hopeful,” he said.

The Inspire Lagos Food Market plans to expand its reach to other local government areas, bringing its subsidized food program to more communities in need.

He emphasized the importance of community support during challenging times and encouraged residents to take advantage of the initiative to improve their overall well-being.

“This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that no one goes hungry in our community,” Yusuf added. “We will continue to seek partnerships that will further alleviate the economic pressures faced by our residents.”

The initiative has been met with positive feedback from the community, as many families have expressed gratitude for the financial relief and access to essential food items. Yusuf promised that the local government would keep working on similar programs to enhance food security in Surulere.