Lagos Urges Startups to Boost Agricultural Innovation

The Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, has encouraged greater participation from startups and enterprises in revolutionizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Speaking at the maiden edition of the PricePally Impact Summit held in Lagos on Monday, Olusanya emphasized the pressing need for fresh, tech-driven approaches to address challenges in food production and distribution—similar to those pioneered by PricePally.

The summit brought together key players across the agricultural value chain, including farmers, agritech innovators, investors, government officials, food vendors, and logistics experts. The event centered on advancing access to sustainable and affordable fresh food in the country.

Olusanya acknowledged the crucial role that technology and grassroots distribution systems have played in maintaining food supply chains, particularly during periods of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Platforms like PricePally have effectively connected producers with consumers, even in difficult times. They provide mutual value and resilience within the ecosystem. These are the types of innovations we aim to support,” she stated.

Luther Lawoyin, CEO of PricePally, echoed this vision by stressing the need to uplift Nigerian farmers.

“Farming in Nigeria is challenging, but we aim to change that narrative. Farmers deserve recognition and financial stability—they are the core of our food ecosystem,” he said.

Other speakers at the summit highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the sector, particularly involving women and young people. Initiatives such as agri-call centers for women in northern Nigeria and the promotion of urban farming techniques like soilless agriculture were also showcased as pathways to modernizing the sector.