Lagos MCCTI

08/09/2026

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, COOPERATIVES, TRADE AND INVESTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

MCCTI ADVANCES DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF COOPERATIVE SOCIETIES TO UNLOCK INFORMAL ECONOMY

The Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment (MCCTI) on Monday 7th September, convened a high-level Stakeholders’ meeting on the digitization of Cooperative Societies , marking a decisive step towards integrating the vast Informal Sector into a transparent, efficient and growth-oriented Cooperative Economy .

The Meeting, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, brought together key actors under the leadership of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Babatunde Onigbanjo, and featured strategic presentations on the Lagos State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Cooperative (LASMECO) platform and the broader digitalization agenda.

In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary underscored the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that Cooperative societies are not left behind in the State’s digital transformation drive.

Mr. Onigbanjo sought clarity on pathways for Cooperative currently outside the LASMECO framework to benefit fully from the emerging Ecosystem .

In his remarks the Technical Adviser to Honourable Commissioner for MCCTI, Dr. Olamide Okulaja, delivered a compelling synergy presentation on LASMECO and digitization.

He highlighted the strategic imperative of the initiative, noting that approximately 95 per cent(95%} of businesses in Lagos operate in the informal sector.

These Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), he observed, form the backbone of the Economy , yet remain largely invisible within formal Governance structures.

Dr. Okulaja emphasized that the current fragmented systems present a unique opportunity to transform the Governance of the Cooperative Economy.

The Technical Adviser outlined a proposed dual legal framework supported by a single Unified Digital Architecture , with MCCTI serving as the Platform Owner, Policy Director and Standard- setter. Key elements of the architecture include a robust Cooperative guarantee structure and strategic alliances designed to strengthen trust, access to finance and operational efficiency across Cooperative societies .

Dr. Okulaja reaffirmed that significant investment has already been committed to the process. He assured stakeholders that pending Memoranda of Understanding would be finalized without delay, enabling the timely launch of the platform .

The meeting noted that LASMECO has been established as a financial lever to provide structure, audit gateway and access to finance for beneficiaries. The initiative offers loans at a single-digit interest rate of 9 per cent (9%) per annum, significantly reducing the cost of financial inclusion .

Further contributions focused on the operational frameworks required to translate policy into impact. Stakeholders stressed the need for seamless alignment between the digitization agenda and existing Cooperative policy. Discussions also addressed revenue-generation potential and the residual regulatory considerations involving the Central Bank of Nigeria. Participants expressed confidence that ongoing engagements would elevate the initiative to the next level of implementation.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of SEKAT Technologies, Mr. Ajomale Taiwo, noted that the database registry would align SMEs on business decision layers, with a unified platform integrating business analytics and intelligence for seamless ex*****on of the initiative.

The Meeting concluded with a Vote of Thanks by the Director of Cooperative Services, Dr. Adeyinka Adeyemi, who commended the collaborative spirit and reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to deliver a modern, inclusive and digitally enabled cooperative sector.

The Lagos State Government remains steadfast in its mission to formalise opportunity, deepen financial inclusion and position Cooperative societies as Engines of Sustainable Economic Growth for the benefit of all Lagosians.

Salehu - Badejo Abimbola
Director, Public Affairs Unit,
MCCTI
8/9/26

03/09/2026

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT,

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, COOPERATIVES, TRADE AND INVESTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS LEADS INVESTMENT DRIVE AS GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU UNVEILS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS’ DEAL , AT INVEST NIGERIA 4.0

Lagos State has taken the Centre Stage at the fourth edition(4:0) of the LCCI Invest Nigeria Conference and Expo, with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Hon. Folashade Bada Ambrose‑Medebem, outlining a Comprehensive roadmap to transform the State, into Africa’s Premier Investment Destination .

The Governor’s representative ; Hon. Ambrose - Medebem, declared that Lagos is not merely seeking Capital, but , is building the Institutional Structures that enable Private Capital, to participate meaningfully in Economic development. “Our objective is not consuming the future; we Manufacture it, Foster it, Advance it as a leading network. We are deliberate in everything we do,” she stated, emphasizing that the State wants Investment that creates jobs and positions Lagos businesses , within regional value chains.

Hon. Ambrose‑Medebem highlighted Lagos’ threefold identity as a Market , a Gateway , and an Ecosystem– a convergence point for Manufacturers , Talent, Technology , and Entrepreneurship. “Our youths are not waiting for investment; they are creating it. Lagos can demonstrate that culture can become commerce and creativity can become revenue,” she said, urging Local Businesses to seize upcoming opportunities when Lagos hosts CANEX 2026 and IATF 2027.

The Commissioner underscored the critical role of Public‑Private Partnerships (PPPs), revealing that in January 2026, the Lagos State Office of Public‑Private Partnerships signed a two‑year cooperation agreement with the Hong Kong Institution of Public‑Private Partnerships to strengthen technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, and investment‑aligned partnerships. In July, Lagos also inked four PPP concession agreements covering Healthcare , Transportation , Digital Governance , and Public Asset Management .

She acknowledged that Lagos scored 87% at an Enabling Business Forum, earning the State top ranking in the Business World. To move from rhetoric to action, the Government unveiled the Lagos Investment Deal Book at the 2025 Lagos Investment Summit 2.0 – a portfolio of bankable projects across Transportation , Healthcare , Sustainable Energy , Innovation , Technology , and the Green Economy . “The purpose was simple: to move the conversation from ‘Lagos has opportunities’ to ‘Here are the projects; here is the value proposition; here is the pathway for engagement,’” she explained.

The Governor’s representative challenged participants to judge the Conference, not by attendance but by tangible outcomes ; partnerships formed, projects financed, regulatory bottlenecks removed, and jobs created.

She reiterated that Private Sector feedback is essential for Policy refinement, and that the Government remains committed to honest, transparent engagement with Investors .

In his opening address, the Convener and President of LCCI, Engr. Leye Kupoluyi, applauded the Honourable Commissioner as the “Image Governor of Lagos State” and described the Conference as a collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

He noted that Lagos State, with over 20 million people and an Entrepreneurial spirit across Manufacturing , Technology , Energy , and Healthcare, must convert opportunities into stable economic growth.

Engr. Kupoluyi stressed the need to tell the Nigerian story directly to foreign Investors, thus, positioning Nigeria as Africa’s epicentre.

The LCCI President , called for frameworks that maximise investment returns, highlighting 80% arable land for commercial farming, the role of Artificial Intelligence in automated factories, and the importance of sub‑national delegations, further extending an invitation to the African Commercial Conference in November 2026 ,to encourage participants identify concrete opportunities, build long‑term partnerships, and position Nigeria as a core investment hub.

The Conference also drew robust contributions from Development Finance Institutions , Diplomatic Missions , Regulatory bodies, and Private Sector Leaders, all underscoring Nigeria’s vast potential and readiness for scaled-up investment.

According to the Director‑General of Afreximbank, Mr. Kudawashe Matere, who emphasized that supply shocks have exposed Africa’s Economic fragility, aggravating vulnerabilities and pushing up the cost of crude oil and Agricultural inputs.

He mentioned that multiple remittances cost Africa $70.5 billion, reinforcing the urgent need for a more resilient Continent . Afreximbank, he said, is tackling these challenges through Quality ‑Assurance Centers that reduce Export rejections and enhance Destination markets, while also promoting Intra - African Trade under the AfCFTA.

“We in Africa should not wait for institutions to be built; rather, we should foster infrastructural development. We should believe we can do it,” he declared, announcing that Lagos will host the Intra‑African Trade Fair from 5th to 11th November 2027.

In his address, the Division Director for West Africa at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Mr. Olivier Buyoya, observed that capital is becoming more selective and Investors are increasingly focused on lasting returns.

Citing Nigeria’s $291 billion GDP, he stressed that strong businesses need strong foundations, which the IFC provides through financing and support for commercially viable projects. He identified improved transparency in market reforms, with gross external reserves strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s growing macroeconomic outlook. Mr. Buyoya also welcomed Nigeria’s transition from frontier market status , effective September 2026, calling it an early acknowledgement of improved Foreign- Exchange Liquidity and Market Capital.

He implored for deeper regional integration, pointing out that only 16% of Africa’s Exports currently stay within the Continent, compared to 67% within Europe and 66% within Asia.

The Diplomatic Community reinforced the case for enhanced Bilateral cooperation. The Ambassador of Brazil ; His Excellency, Carlos José Areias Moreno Garcete , underscored the need for a modern Financial Architecture , including Direct Correspondent Banking, reciprocal Credit Lines and shared guarantees, to lower Foreign- Exchange risks and boost Brazilian investment in Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Ambassador of Côte d’Ivoire ; His Excellency, Kalilou Traoré, described the Nigeria‑Côte d’Ivoire joint venture as economically pertinent, affirming that his country is open for business partnerships and inviting investors to explore its beaches, diverse tourism, and cultural traditions.

The Ambassador of Poland ; His Excellency Mr. Michał Cygan,shared his nation’s remarkable transformation from Economic challenges to a trillion‑dollar Economy , emphasizing that reforms, dedication, and policy consistency were central to that success.

According to the Ambassador of Thailand; His Excellency, Mr. Thirapath Mongkolnvain, who reaffirmed that Thailand is not merely selling products but is committed to exporting investment, sharing technology, and building partnerships. He announced the signing of a Record of Discussion on the Thai‑Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Technology Learning Centre, aimed at building local capacity in Agriculture , Health, and Tourism .

The Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Prof. Eghosa E. Osaghae, reiterated Nigeria’s target of becoming a $1 trillion Economy by 2030.

He averred that bilateral relations, Citizen diplomacy, and the Nigerian diaspora , are critical instruments for achieving this goal, and called for reciprocity in investment relationships

Prof. Osaghe stated that Nigeria has diplomatic missions in over 110 countries and is expanding its outreach to ensure that both foreign and Nigerian investors benefit equitably.

The Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Mr. Mairiga Alimi, affirmed that Nigeria’s Capital Market is gaining strength, with FTSE Russell’s decision to transition Nigeria from frontier market status effective September 2026 serving as a testament to ongoing reforms. He emphasised the importance of transparency, strong governance, investor protection, and regulatory certainty to sustain capital inflows and broaden the range of funding available to businesses and government.

The Co‑Founder of Chocolate City Group, Mr. Audu Maikori, spotlighted the creative economy as a tangible asset class, citing global acquisitions and the immense potential of Nigerian music, film, and digital content. He called for policies that support the gig economy, female founders, and easier access to finance, urging the government to address mobility, taxation, and fund‑management issues to unlock the sector’s full potential.

Delivering the keynote remarks on behalf of President , Federal Republic of Nigeria; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole ( MFR) reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business.

She announced that 25% of reform commitments are now being implemented, with visible investments in Power, Transportation , Aviation , and Technology , alongside landmark domestic projects such as the Dangote Refinery and UAC’s acquisition of Chi Limited.

Dr. Oduwole ( MFR) , highlighted the Electricity Act 2023, which has opened space for State - level and Private Investment in power, and the Strategic Partnerships with the UAE, reiterating that Nigeria will host CANEX in November 2026 and the Intra‑African Trade Fair in November 2027, further consolidating its position as a Prime Investment Gateway .

The two‑day Conference , convened by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, continues to serve as a platform for actionable dialogue, with a clear message from Lagos: the opportunities are here, the market is ready, and the Government is committed to turning investment potential into shared prosperity.

Salehu - Badejo Abimbola
Director, Public Affairs Unit
MCCTI
September 2nd, 2026

02/09/2026

02/09/2026

Today, we didn’t just mark the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Awareness month; we turned our MCCTI Workspace into a vibrant circle of solidarity, as colleagues shared resources, designed protective pledge cards, and even staged a light-hearted collective voice against SGBV. Our "Wall of Support," is reinforced by shared truth: a safe MCCTI , is a stronger MCCTI.

This celebration wasn't just about condemning violence, it ‘s about celebrating our collective voice, our proactive spirit, and the unshakeable commitment we have to protect every Member of our Community , on and off the clock.
Say No to Sexual and Gender - Based Violence!

02/09/2026

Say no to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence,
I stand against SGBV.
.

01/09/2026

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, COOPERATIVES, TRADE AND INVESTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS COMMISSIONER CHARGES WOMEN IN MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS ON RESILIENCE, AS WIMCA 2026 HOLDS IN VICTORIA ISLAND

…Says marketing is Engine room of trade, not mere support system for business

…As NIMN President, Seplat Director advocate career excellence, intentionality

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, has charged female Professionals in the Marketing Communications Industry to embrace resilience as the cornerstone of Professional distinction, describing Marketing as the "Engine room of Trade" rather than a mere support system for business.

Speaking on Saturday , 29th August as the Keynote speaker during the 12th edition of the Women in Marketing Communications Conference and Awards (WIMCA 2026), held at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Commissioner emphasised that the theme ; “Grow, Give, Glow: Professional Resilience for Distinction" serves as a blueprint for survival and excellence in a volatile Economy .

Mrs. Ambrose-Medebem revealed that Lagos State's Economy is valued at $259.75 billion in purchasing power parity terms, making it the Second Largest - City Economy in Africa.

She reiterated that the State Gross Domestic Product moved from ₦54.77 trillion in 2024 to a projected ₦66.47 trillion in 2025, with the services sector—where most marketing professionals build their careers—accounting for over 90 per cent of that output.

The Commissioner averred that total marketing communications spend in Nigeria reached ₦605.2 billion in 2023, growing from ₦216 billion in 2018—a compound annual growth rate of 18.7 per cent—and is projected to reach ₦893 billion by 2028. She cited the ARCON and PricewaterhouseCoopers study, which found that for every one naira spent on marketing communications, national GDP rises by 16.5 naira.

"You are not a cost centre. You are a multiplier," Ambrose-Medebem declared, urging women in the industry to embrace upskilling in the face of technological disruption.

The Commissioner also emphasized the importance of giving back, challenging every agency represented at the conference to adopt at least one cooperative or SME in the next twelve months, offering pro bono strategic counsel, brand development, or digital visibility. She noted that while Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises make up roughly 96 per cent of all businesses in Nigeria and contribute close to half of national GDP, only about 23 per cent of women-owned businesses can access formal credit—a gap she described as a communications problem.

The MCCTI Commissioner implored for three actionable challenges to the audience: to grow intentionally through the Ministry's Digital Trade portal and Cooperative Support Grants, to give authentically by sponsoring Professional Certification for young female graduates or adopting Rural Cooperatives; and to glow responsibly by advocating ethical Marketing practices.

"Formidable ladies of substance, the journey to distinction is rarely a straight line. It is a winding path of setbacks, comebacks and breakthroughs. But I am confident that with the spirit of growing, giving and glowing—resilience—the women of the Marketing Communications Industry will not merely survive the future of Commerce . They will define it," Ambrose-Medebem said.

Welcoming guests to the event, the Convener and Chief Executive Officer of Awesome Communications, Mr. Joshua Ajayi, underscored the importance of the platform in fostering Professional development among female Marketing practitioners.

He commended the gathering of leading female minds in the industry, noting that the conference had become a critical fixture in Nigeria's Marketing Communications calendar

In her address, the President of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Dr. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi, stated that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) keep businesses running, but career excellence determines professional paths. "Career is cultivated as a calibrated path. Career excellence is beyond a performance regimen. It is how you are able to connect the dots and think of business values," she said.

Dr. Bayo-Ajayi, the first female President of NIMN, further noted that career excellence requires delivering business values across all platforms and understanding the supply chain of each brand. "This will help you connect a lot to what you are doing. It builds relationships with stakeholders, builds vision for them. You have to keep tabs on success stories. Who are you raising after? Who have you replicated?" she asked.

Earlier, the Founder of LivewithLynda, Ms. Lynda Aguocha, who chaired a panel discussion on building brands and understanding business strategies, urged participants to focus on building capital, capability, wealth, and knowledge. She emphasised that professionals must move to do what they are good at, leveraging their expertise to drive business growth.

Also speaking, the Director of External Affairs at Seplat Energy Plc, Mrs. Chioma Afe, described career excellence as intentionality, emphasising the importance of skills development and continuous learning. "What problems are you working with the organisation to solve? It is a process," she said, adding that professionals must see themselves as valuable members of their organisations and articulate value in decision-making. "Curiosity is wealth. You cannot afford to be a conduit; be a professional that evolves," Afe advised.

The Conference , which attracted over 1,000 female marketing professionals, featured the presentation of the Women in Marketing Communications Awards 2026, recognising outstanding female practitioners in the industry with awards of credence.

Salehu - Badejo Abimbola
Director, Public Affairs Unit
MCCTI
30th August, 2026.

31/08/2026

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, COOPERATIVES, TRADE AND INVESTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS MOVES TO FAST-TRACK OPERATIONALISATION OF IMOTA INDUSTRIAL HUB

…Targets Industrial Clusters, MSME Growth, Skills Development, Job Creation

The Lagos State Government has commenced a phased activation plan for the Imota Industrial Hub, Ikorodu, as part of efforts to translate the State’s Industrial Policy into tangible economic opportunities, strengthen local value chains and accelerate industrial production across the State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, accompanied by the Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, and officials of the Ministry, undertook an assessment visit to the Hub on Saturday, 29 August 2026, to evaluate its readiness and identify immediate interventions required for commencement of operations.

The assessment established that the facility has significant potential to become a major industrial and economic centre, with existing infrastructure, production spaces and machinery capable of supporting early activation.

Speaking during the visit, the Honourable Commissioner described the facility as a “low-hanging fruit” with considerable potential for quick activation, stressing that the State would not wait for every component of the facility to be “100% perfect” before commencing operations.

The Commissioner said the strategic priority was to begin with facilities that are ready for use, while addressing outstanding infrastructure and operational requirements progressively.

According to her , the Hub must be developed beyond a collection of factory spaces into an integrated industrial centre built around complementary businesses, shared machinery, production, logistics, training and market access.

The proposed Industrial clustering model will bring businesses within related value chains together, enabling Manufacturers , Processors, packaging companies, logistics providers and other supporting Enterprises to share infrastructure, reduce production costs, strengthen local sourcing and improve competitiveness.

Agriculture and Agro-processing have been identified as priority areas, with opportunities in food processing, Rice-related activities, packaging, Agricultural Inputs, Machinery fabrication and maintenance, Equipment servicing, storage and logistics.

The visit also opened a new dimension for collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund, with the Hub expected to serve as a practical platform for technical and vocational training, industrial apprenticeship, equipment-based learning and certification.

The Director-General of ITF, who participated in the assessment, expressed the Fund’s readiness to explore collaboration with the Ministry in using the Hub to bridge the gap between technical training and practical industrial experience, particularly by exposing trainees to operational machinery and production environments.

The proposed model will enable the Hub to combine production and manufacturing with skills development, industrial support and market access, creating a stronger pipeline of skilled workers and potential entrepreneurs for Lagos’ industrial sector.

The State Government will also address key Operational requirements, including reliable power, logistics and heavy-duty truck management, temporary accommodation for workers and operators, facility management, security, maintenance and performance monitoring.

The activation strategy will be implemented in phases, beginning with an inventory of available units, machinery and facilities, identification of priority industrial clusters, assessment of power requirements, establishment of Facility Management structures and identification of prospective Manufacturers , Processors and MSMEs.

The Second- Phase will focus on onboarding suitable businesses, commencing production and introducing ITF-supported training programmes, while the third phase will provide for Infrastructure upgrades, Additional investment, expanded Industrial clusters and full operationalization.

The Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment is expected to lead the development of a comprehensive activation plan in collaboration with Hub management, ITF and other relevant stakeholders.

The Lagos State Government said the Imota Industrial Hub is expected to deliver tangible benefits to surrounding communities through employment creation, MSME growth, Skills development, increased local production, investment attraction and stronger Local Supply Chains.

The Hub is also being positioned as a potential model for industrial development that can be replicated in other parts of Lagos State.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to moving from Industrial Policy to measurable Economic outcomes by activating existing Infrastructure , supporting businesses and creating an enabling Environment for production and investment.

The visit concluded with a clear directive to resolve immediate operational gaps, identify the first set of activities and occupants, and commence phased operations without unnecessary delay.

Salehu - Badejo Abimbola
Director, Public Affairs Unit
MCCTI
31st August , 2026

28/08/2026

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, COOPERATIVES, TRADE AND INVESTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO SEAMLESS CROSS-BORDER TRADE, EXPORT GROWTH

The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to strengthening cross-border trade, promoting Nigerian exports and ensuring greater compliance with established trade regulations and documentation requirements.

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, stated this while addressing stakeholders at an engagement on the movement of trade across the Nigeria-Benin border.

The Commissioner who was represented at the engagement by the Director of Trade in the Ministry, Mr. Dayo Shobayo, emphasized the strategic importance of intra-African trade to Economic development, with particular attention to the Seme border, which remains a major corridor for trade between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

He highlighted the Lagos State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (LASMECO) programme, stressing the need for sustained support and collaboration among relevant stakeholders to advance initiatives that strengthen trade and investment in Lagos State.

The engagement, which brought together officials of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nigeria Customs Service and other stakeholders, focused on improving the movement of legitimate trade across the border, promoting effective export documentation and deepening awareness of applicable regulations.

Speaking on Export documentation, Deputy Comptroller Olukemi Ikeghuse of the Nigeria Customs Service stressed the need for Exporters to obtain and make available the requisite documents for successful Export transactions.

Among the documents highlighted were the NSP, packing list, sales contract and CCI, which are required to facilitate compliance at the border.

Also Speaking , Deputy Comptroller AG Umar underscored the importance of compliance with Local and International laws, Customs procedures and applicable Trade restrictions.

He called for sustained education and increased awareness among businesses and Exporters to improve understanding of trade requirements and promote compliant cross-border Commerce .

The Lagos State Government reiterated that effective documentation, regulatory compliance and Stakeholder collaboration are essential to expanding export opportunities and strengthening the State’s contribution to regional trade.

The engagement is expected to further promote Nigerian exports, equip exporters with relevant information on trade requirements and increase awareness of government programmes supporting trade and investment.

Salehu - Badejo Abimbola
Director, Public Affairs Unit
MCCTI
28th August , 2026

27/08/2026

LAGOS SEEKS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH NIFST TO ADVANCE FOOD PROCESSING, MSME DEVELOPMENT

The Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, has expressed its readiness to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) in food processing, value addition, MSME development, trade and investment promotion, technology and innovation.

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, stated this during a courtesy visit by the leadership of NIFST to the Ministry., on Thursday 27th August , 2026.

In her welcome remarks, the Honourable Commissioner who was represented by the Director, Agribusiness Support Unit, Mrs. Muminat Osiefa-Atitebi, reiterated the Administration’s commitment to making food and food-related Enterprises a priority in Lagos State, stressing that “no food, no life, because food is life.”

She emphasized the importance of food processing and commercialization in strengthening the State’s Economy , creating opportunities for MSMEs and Agripreneurs , as well as increased patronage of locally made products.

She also called for greater Public awareness, improved Resource Management and stronger support systems , in order to ensure that promising Enterprises can grow and contribute meaningfully to the Economy.

The HC , MCCTI identified continuity, funding and effective institutional coordination , as key considerations for achieving sustainable development.

Hon. Folashade Bada Ambrose Medebem proposed the establishment of a formal Partners between the Ministry and the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology, NIFST, through a Memorandum of Understanding, subject to the submission of a formal proposal by the Institute.

She averred that the implementation of capacity-building programmes for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises,Agripreneurs and other interested participants was peculiar requiring specialized training to non-members who wish to benefit from the Institute's programmes.

“The Ministry recognises the importance of continuity, funding and effective institutional coordination in achieving sustainable development. We therefore propose the establishment of a formal partnership between the Ministry and NIFST through a Memorandum of Understanding, subject to the submission of a formal proposal by the Institute,” she said.

She reiterated on the appointment of a liaison officer for strengthened communication and coordination between both institutions.

“The Ministry is also inviting NIFST to participate in our Business Clinic initiative, where the Institute can provide practical training and technical guidance to business owners, particularly in food processing, packaging, quality standards and other related areas,” Honourable Commissioner , MCCTI stated.

She expressed the Ministry's willingness to strengthen collaborations with NIFST in order to expand access to relevant technical knowledge, build the capacity of businesses and support sustainable development across the sector.

Earlier, the President of NIFST, Dr. Bola Osinowo, described the Institute as the professional body representing Food Science and Technology practitioners in Nigeria. He disclosed that NIFST would commemorate its 50th anniversary in October with Eko 2026, its Fifth Conference, scheduled for 12th to 16th October, under the theme: “Transforming Food Research into Enterprise through Innovation and Commercialization for Sustainable Development.”

Dr. Osinowo disclosed that the Governor of Lagos State would serve as Chief Host of the conference and appealed for the State Government’s support, including the provision of BRT buses to facilitate transportation for participants during the event.

He stated that NIFST was ready to collaborate with the Lagos State Government, particularly through the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment and the Ministry of Agriculture, on food-related initiatives. According to him, the Institute provides training in food processing and is actively involved in food safety awareness, quality control, food regulation and food security.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mrs. Ubany Taiwo Olubunmi, reiterated the Institute’s commitment to ensuring that research outcomes are translated into commercially viable Enterprises .

Also speaking, the Lagos Chapter Chairperson, Mrs. Kikelomo Amoreoluwa, highlighted the chapter’s advocacy and food safety activities, including nine years of data collection across Lagos, free public education programmes and market visits to monitor food adulteration and compliance with food safety standards. She added that the chapter also conducts weekly radio programmes to promote food safety awareness and expressed its readiness to partner with the Ministry’s Agribusiness Support Unit.

According to Mr. Wole Toye who called for a stronger partnership between the Ministry and NIFST to support Enterprise development , as well as improved livelihoods of Lagos residents.

In his address, the former President of NIFST, Mr. Sola Olawale, disclosed that the Institute was developing an Academy designed to bridge knowledge and skills gaps in food science and enterprise development emphasizing that the proposed programmes would cover food science fundamentals, food processing and packaging, supported by experienced resource persons drawn from various industries.

He implored for an exhibition focused on made-in-Nigeria products, providing an avenue for businesses to showcase locally produced goods and connect with potential markets and investors.

The highlight of the forum was presentation of a package containing various NIFST publications to the Ministry by the President of the Institute, Dr. Bola Osinowo.

The engagement underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional partnerships that promote food processing, enterprise development, local production, investment opportunities and sustainable economic growth.

Salehu - Badejo Abimbola
Director, Public Affairs Unit,
MCCTI
27th August, 2026