On Sunday, May 26, 2025, the Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting young agritech entrepreneurs and enhancing food production through global partnerships. Speaking at the Agrinnovation Hangout 6.0, held in Lagos, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, called for collaboration with international organisations to boost agricultural productivity, innovation, and export capacity.
The event convened a wide range of agritech startups and businesses already developing solutions in e-commerce, drone technology, data analytics, and logistics, among others. Ms. Olusanya emphasised the state’s vision of a technology-driven agriculture sector that can generate jobs, reduce food insecurity, and create value across the supply chain.
“We’re focused on bringing together like-minded individuals who are transforming agriculture—from farmers to logistics providers and cold-chain solution providers. Everyone plays a role in this ecosystem,” she said. “That’s why in November 2023, we launched the Lagos Agri Innovation Club. The network is growing rapidly, and we’re seeing stronger collaboration and business growth across the food space.”
Olusanya highlighted the importance of partnerships and community support in helping agritech entrepreneurs thrive. “At our last hangout, we hosted the Consul General of the Netherlands. Today, we have the Consul General of Denmark. These engagements expose our young innovators to global ideas, technologies, and opportunities.”
She stressed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been a strong supporter of agritech development. “Last year, through the Lagos Agrinnovation Challenge, we awarded over ₦100 million to 26 businesses. This year, we aim to do even more. That’s why we’re actively engaging with multilateral and bilateral agencies to increase our funding pool and support even more startups,” she said.
According to Olusanya, agriculture—particularly agri-food innovation—is a top development priority for the state, and young entrepreneurs have the potential to reshape Nigeria’s food systems. “Unfortunately, many young people still view agriculture as unattractive, but the truth is, this sector holds huge potential for financial success and sustainable impact.”
Also speaking at the event, the Consul General of the Royal Danish Consulate in Nigeria, Ms. Jette Bjerrum, expressed her government’s readiness to work with Lagos State in supporting innovation in the agriculture sector. She noted the scale of Nigeria’s agricultural economy and the pressing need for modern technology to enhance productivity and value.
“The entire agricultural value chain is key to Denmark’s engagement in Nigeria,” Bjerrum said. “We bring a range of tools—commercial and development programs, direct finance investment, and technical know-how. Despite being a small country, Denmark has made agriculture highly efficient and technology-driven. For example, our average farm size is 77 hectares, and most farms are automated. Farmers must be certified and properly trained, which ensures both safety and sustainability.”
Bjerrum added that Denmark is committed to building long-term partnerships that support education, innovation, and agricultural efficiency in Nigeria. “Our collaboration with Lagos is about sharing knowledge, supporting local capacity, and helping Nigeria unlock its agricultural potential.”
