Lagos Agrinnovation drives youth agribusiness growth with skills, funding access

Lagos Agrinnovation has reinforced its position as a growing platform for youth-driven agribusiness development, equipping young people with the skills, funding access and support systems needed to build sustainable ventures across the state.

The initiative, described as a movement focused on practical empowerment, continues to connect emerging agripreneurs with knowledge, tools and industry networks that improve their chances of success. Through a series of engagements and collaborative programmes, it is helping to reshape agriculture in Lagos into a more innovation-led and commercially viable sector.

Speaking at a recent gathering, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, commended the consistency and growth of young participants within the ecosystem. She noted that many of them are evolving into more refined entrepreneurs capable of competing in modern agribusiness.

“Agribusiness remains a key driver for economic diversification and youth empowerment,” she said, adding that the state government is committed to creating an enabling environment where innovation can thrive and entrepreneurs can access the resources required to grow.

Also addressing participants, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Oluwarotimi Fashola, highlighted the transformation within the sector. According to him, agriculture has moved beyond traditional practices and now revolves around innovation, technology and value creation.

He praised the resilience and creativity of young people redefining the sector, stressing that platforms like Agrinnovation are critical in helping them scale ideas into viable businesses.

The Permanent Secretary, Emmanuel Audu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that policy initiatives translate into tangible opportunities. He explained that partnerships with financial institutions and support organisations are being strengthened to improve access to funding, training and infrastructure.

Participants also received industry insights from Vera Ebhohon of Sterling Bank Limited, who outlined available financial products and strategic support designed to help agripreneurs expand their operations sustainably.

In a similar vein, Olufolake Ikupayi, representing the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), provided guidance on accessing funding opportunities and navigating business support systems within the state.

The event also attracted international attention, with representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency survey team in attendance, signalling growing global interest in Lagos’ agribusiness landscape and potential areas for collaboration.

Closing the session, the Director for Agribusiness, Aramide Gansallo, encouraged participants to remain proactive and informed, noting that adaptability will be key in a rapidly evolving global economy.