Lagos Governor Reiterates Food Security’s Economic Impact

The Lagos State Governor has reiterated the critical importance of food security in driving economic growth and development. He emphasised that ensuring food security has a direct impact on the well-being of citizens and the stability of the economy.

This was stated by Babajide Sanwo-Olu during the investiture of Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, as a Trustee of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) on Wednesday at the institute’s Lagos campus.

Sanwo-Olu, who was accompanied by Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, stated that food security is essential to the general well-being of the state’s citizens and the stability of its economy.

The state government has put in place a number of programs to strengthen the agricultural and food sectors, including empowerment programs for women and youth.

He claims that in order to facilitate the distribution of agricultural products, the state government has also made investments in vital infrastructure, including contemporary marketplaces, cold storage facilities, and effective transportation systems.

Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working with the NIFST to accomplish their common objectives and praised the organisation for its efforts to advance food safety, security, and innovation.

The governor also underlined how crucial the private sector is to attaining food security, stating that businesses need to embrace diversity, sustainability, and innovation.

In order to create a robust food system that can weather upcoming difficulties and enable Nigerian women and youth to be change agents, Sanwo-Olu called on all parties involved to collaborate.

Sanwo-Olu congratulated the Ooni of Ife on his investiture, stating that his commitment to national development was admirable and that he was confident his participation with the NIFST would enhance the institute’s work.

He claimed that the Ooni of Ife’s appointment as a trustee of the NIFST was an acknowledgement of the critical role that traditional leadership played in advancing society.

Sanwo-Olu was confident that Ooni’s participation in the NIFST would help the institute achieve its goals by contributing a wealth of experience and influence.

In his keynote speech, Mr Sola Olawale, Managing Director of Feed Me Ventures Ltd., stated that although food processing and technology are important, the ultimate objective should be to guarantee that the food we eat is not only accessible but also healthy and nourishing.

The productivity and well-being of entire generations are threatened by poor nutrition, which is a silent murderer.

“Addressing malnutrition in its various forms from stunting to obesity continues to affect millions in Nigeria,” he said

Olawale stated that a well-nourished population is healthy and productive and that ailments like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are frequently linked to poor diets.

He also pointed out that children are particularly vulnerable, as malnutrition hinders their growth and cognitive development.

“Promoting balanced eating habits and educating people about the benefits of traditional nutrient-rich foods can reverse these trends.

“Our mothers are the cornerstone of nutrition in every household. By empowering them with knowledge and resources, we can significantly improve the nutrition of all families,” Olawale said.

NAN