Nigeria has suffered a staggering loss of 35 million metric tons of food in 2025 due to inadequate storage and broken logistics. This massive post-harvest loss has resulted in a significant deficit for the country, with the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, estimating that the losses could be as high as N3.5 trillion to N5 trillion. Despite the growing food economy in Lagos, which has more than doubled in six years, the state still grapples with a high rate of post-harvest losses.

The governor, represented by Abisola Olusanya, commissioner of Agriculture and Food Systems, emphasized that the state is open to investment and innovation to address the issues plaguing the country's food systems. He urged exhibitors and investors to bring their expertise and capital to create solutions that work for farmers, consumers, and the environment. The governor is optimistic about the potential returns on investment, stating that the market is here and the political will is unwavering.

The governor's vision for a modern food logistics backbone, led by the Lagos Central Food Security and Logistics Hub in Epe, aims to create a network of agro-produce hubs and last-mile outlets to ensure faster and fresher food delivery to the people.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

The governor's admission of a 35 million metric ton food loss in 2025 should prompt the federal government to take concrete action to address the issue of post-harvest losses. The proposed Lagos Central Food Security and Logistics Hub is a commendable initiative, but it remains to be seen whether the federal government will follow suit with similar projects in other states. The estimated losses of N3.5 trillion to N5 trillion are a stark reminder of the economic impact of this problem. The governor's call to action for investors and exhibitors is a welcome step, but it is the responsibility of the government to create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.