By Esther Olaifa, JKNewsMedia Reporter
CALLING FOR enhanced agricultural investment, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged foreign investors to collaborate with the Nigerian government in strengthening the country’s food security and fostering sustainable economic growth.
The governor’s message was delivered by Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, who represented the Minister at the official opening of the 10th edition of the Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria Conference and Exhibition, held on 25 March 2025 at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
In a statement signed by the governor, he reaffirmed Lagos State’s position as a strategic hub for agribusiness, food processing, and manufacturing.
“Today, we gather to explore new frontiers for economic expansion and collaboration. Lagos remains a hub for agribusiness, food processing, and manufacturing due to its strategic location, vibrant consumer market, and expanding industrial base.
This exhibition aligns seamlessly with our administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, which emphasises industrialisation, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability,” the statement read.
Declaring the conference open, Governor Sanwo-Olu called on foreign investors to seize opportunities for partnerships, innovation, and sustainable growth.
“I urge you to seize this moment to forge partnerships, innovate solutions, and drive sustainable growth—not just for Lagos but for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.”
He expressed optimism that the event would facilitate groundbreaking discussions and strategic collaborations to enhance economic growth and improve livelihoods across the nation.
Paul März, Managing Director of the event’s organising firm, Fairtrade, highlighted the significance of the exhibition. “Over the past decade, this event has become a cornerstone for innovation, collaboration, and growth within Nigeria’s agrofood and plastprintpack sectors.”
He noted the participation of over 100 leading exhibitors from 12 countries, including China, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, South Africa, and Türkiye, showcasing tailored solutions for the Nigerian market.
März extended gratitude to all stakeholders contributing to the event’s success. “A heartfelt thank you to everyone supporting this event—our exhibitors, trade visitors, partners, supporting authorities, the Landmark Centre, and the international and West African media,” he said.
German Consul General Weert Börner emphasised Nigeria’s longstanding inclusion in Germany’s intensified agricultural cooperation list.
He acknowledged the significant challenges the country faces, including rising food insecurity, high production costs, climate change, and logistical hurdles.
However, he expressed optimism, citing positive developments in agricultural trade. “In 2024, Nigeria’s agricultural trade volume was the highest in years.
More importantly, exports surpassed imports for the first time in years, with cocoa products, sesame, and cashew nuts leading the way.”
In his keynote address, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to informed policymaking.
“As we move forward, we are committed to ensuring that our policies and projects are guided by the latest research and best practices from around the world,” he stated.
Kyari stressed the need for collaboration in addressing food security challenges.
“We believe that by working together, we can create a future where every individual has access to nutritious food, where our agricultural systems are resilient to climate change, and where our economies are strong and sustainable.”
Attendee Jenifer Daniel, a repeat visitor to the event, praised Fairtrade for its consistency in organising a world-class exhibition.
“I commend Fairtrade for their efforts. This is my third time attending since inception, and I am very excited to be here,” she remarked.
The event was attended by dignitaries from various countries, including Michel Cygan, Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Poland; Dr Anthony Osunde, Head of Sales at Krones LCS Center West Africa Limited; and Alexander Isong, President of OTTACWA.
