THE Lagos State Government has reiterated its resolve to continuously explore new and smarter ways of increasing agricultural productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, strengthening food distribution networks, and expanding market access for Lagosians to have access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.

The Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, who gave the assurance on Tuesday, at a press conference to commemorate the 2026 World Food Day, said the food security desired for tomorrow will ultimately depend on the innovations the state is promoting, the investments it is making and the partnerships built today.

Fashola noted that as the state looks towards the future, its objective remains clear: to build a food system that is productive, inclusive, innovative, sustainable and resilient one, capable of meeting the food needs of our growing population while creating wealth, generating employment and improving livelihoods across the agricultural value chain.

He added that the ministry will continue to deepen collaboration with farmers, private-sector investors, development partners, research institutions, technology providers and other stakeholders to accelerate innovation and investment in the sector. We will also continue to empower farmers and agripreneurs, promote youth participation, leverage technology and data, and support solutions that make our food systems more efficient and responsive.

“In essence, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow” is not merely a theme; it is a call to action for all of us to build today the food systems we want to see tomorrow,” noting that a total of 3,500 Value Chains Stakeholders are expected to showcase various agricultural produce and equipment at the event.

He said: “During the 2025 World Food Day Celebration, themed: “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” over 2,000 farmers, agro-processors, food enthusiasts and other stakeholders across various agricultural value chain participated in the celebration, including representatives of farm settlements, farmers’ associations, Local Council Areas and Local Council Development Areas.

“In recognition of their contributions to food production and food security, 11 outstanding farmers across various agricultural value chains were honoured with awards, providing them with greater visibility and opportunities to expand their market reach and increase sales.

“The theme for this year’s celebration, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” is both timely and reflective of the direction of the Lagos State Government’s food systems transformation agenda. It calls for a renewed commitment to harnessing innovation, technology, research and sustainable practices across the agricultural value chain. For Lagos, a rapidly growing megacity with an ever-increasing demand for food, innovation is no longer an option but a necessity.”

He noted that the activities for the yearly events will commence on Thursday, October 8, with a road walk from the JJT Park, to Allen Avenue RoundAbout and Back to JJT Park; Lagos Agric Scholars Quiz Competition to hold at Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro Mushin, on Wednesday, October 14, while the grand finale holds on Friday, October 16, at the Ikeja Police College Parade Ground.