Lagos State Launches N500M Subsidy Program to Support Poultry and Fish Farmers

The Lagos State Government has unveiled a N500 million subsidy program to support local farmers with a 25% discount on poultry and fish feed, aiming to boost food production and combat inflation in the state.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, announced the initiative at a press conference in Lagos, emphasizing its role in easing the financial burden on farmers facing rising production costs.

Ounje Eko Farmers’ Subsidy Programme – Launching February 5

The program, officially named the Ounje Eko Farmers’ Subsidy Programme, is set to launch on February 5, 2025, with weekly subsidy distributions throughout a one-month pilot phase. The initiative targets poultry and aquaculture farmers, sectors heavily impacted by high animal feed costs, which account for over 70% of production expenses.

Olusanya highlighted that many farmers have been forced to cut production or shut down businesses due to soaring feed prices. The subsidy program is designed to stabilize poultry and fish markets, ensure a steady supply of affordable protein sources, and prevent further farm closures.

How Farmers Can Access the Subsidy

To ensure transparency and efficiency, the program will operate through registered farmer associations, with vendors delivering pre-ordered feed to designated locations for verification and distribution. The subsidy will be available every Wednesday from February 5 to February 26, 2025.

Farmers must be registered members of farm clusters or associations to qualify. Distribution will take place at key locations, including:

• Erikorodo Poultry Estate, Ikorodu
• Agricultural Training Institute, Araga, Epe
• Aiyedoto Poultry Estate, Ojo
• Coconut House, Mowo, Badagry
• Farm Service Center, Oko-Oba, Ikeja
• Fish Farm Estate, Odongunyan, Ikorodu

Government Partnerships for Success

The Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems is collaborating with reputable feed millers and farmer associations to ensure the program’s success.

“This intervention will have a direct and sustainable impact on food production in Lagos, ensuring affordability and stability in the poultry and fish markets,” Olusanya stated.

By reducing feed costs, this initiative is expected to support thousands of farmers, curb rising food prices, and improve access to essential protein sources for Lagos residents.