By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The Lagos State Government has launched Phase II of the Ounje Eko Farmers’ Subsidy Programme, expanding its interventions to strengthen food security, stabilise market prices, and support farmers across critical agricultural value chains.
The initiative, implemented through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, was unveiled by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, who described the programme as a flagship intervention of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu Administration designed to safeguard food production and protect farmers from escalating production costs.
Olusanya explained that the subsidy programme was introduced in response to the soaring cost of poultry and fish feed, inputs that account for more than 70 per cent of farmers’ operational expenses. She noted that rising costs had threatened farm viability and, consequently, food availability in the State.
Over 5,000 Farmers Reached in Phase I
Reviewing the first phase of the programme, Olusanya highlighted its achievements, including direct support to over 5,000 farmers. The State Government supplied 993.3 metric tonnes of poultry feed and 265.65 metric tonnes of fish feed, sustaining 258,000 layer birds, 177,100 catfish, and generating over seven million eggs.
She added that the intervention helped to stabilise egg prices, reducing the cost of a crate from ₦6,000 to ₦5,000, bringing relief to both producers and consumers.
Expanded Support Under Phase II
According to the Commissioner, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has approved a broader rollout of Phase II. This includes:
25% subsidy on poultry feed (layer mash, broiler starter and finisher) 25% subsidy on grow-out fish feed and hatchery feed Free distribution of grains to pig farmers Distribution of agricultural machinery and equipment, including power tillers, solar sprayers, corn threshers, planters, freezers, generators, fish smoking kilns, cassava processors, protective gear, weighing scales, and crop input packages Free fertiliser for crop farmers 25% subsidy on Eko Agro Mechanisation Services Continuous agricultural extension support to improve productivity and resilience
She announced that Phase II will commence towards the end of November 2025 in 10 designated centres across Lagos, including Agege, Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, Ojo, Ajah, Ipaja, Mosan, and Ibeju-Lekki. Participation will be limited to recognised and registered associations such as PAN-LAG, LASCAFAN, and various farm estate and settlement groups to ensure transparency.
Olusanya emphasised that the success of Ounje Eko is rooted in strong collaboration. Providus Bank and Zenith Bank will continue as official payment partners to ensure transparent and efficient fund management.
The Ministry is also working closely with leading feed producers including Animal Care Services Konsult, Olam Agri, and New Hope Feeds Nigeria to guarantee the supply of high-quality feeds at subsidised rates.
To cushion the cost of living, the State Government will apply a 25% subsidy on essential food items at the Lagos Fresh Food Hub in Mushin. These items include rice, beans, garri, bread, assorted peppers, onions, smoked fish, frozen chicken, palm oil, vegetable oil, fruits, and spices, an intervention designed to ensure food affordability during the festive season.
Olusanya stated that the initiative aligns with the Produce for Lagos Programme and the Lagos Food Systems Transformation Agenda, bridging both production and consumption needs.
The Commissioner expressed deep appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu, whom she described as the State’s “Number One Food Systems Champion,” for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to transforming Lagos’ agricultural ecosystem.
She also commended private-sector partners, farmer associations, and the media for their support in driving programmes that promote food security, empower farmers, and foster sustainable prosperity across the State.
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