Lagos State has launched the third edition of its Agrithon programme, a youth-driven initiative designed to strengthen innovation in agriculture and food systems through financial and technical support.
Eko Hot News reports that the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, announced the initiative as part of efforts to deepen youth participation in agribusiness and promote sustainable food production across the state.
She explained that the programme is structured to provide funding opportunities, mentorship, and capacity-building support for young innovators with scalable agricultural ideas.
According to her, the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transforming agriculture into a modern, technology-driven sector capable of attracting young entrepreneurs.
The Agrithon programme also aims to improve food security in Lagos by encouraging innovative solutions that address challenges within the agricultural value chain.
Officials stated that the ₦200 million grant pool will be used to support selected projects with strong potential for growth, job creation, and economic impact.
The state government noted that previous editions of the Agrithon have helped bridge gaps between ideas and market-ready agricultural businesses.
Ms. Olusanya highlighted that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to reposition Lagos as a hub for agribusiness innovation and investment.
She added that young participants will also benefit from expert mentorship and business development guidance to help scale their projects sustainably.
The programme is expected to attract startups and innovators working across various segments, including crop production, aquaculture, logistics, and food processing.
Stakeholders in the agricultural sector have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a strategic step toward strengthening youth engagement in food systems development.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment that supports innovation, private sector collaboration, and long-term agricultural growth.
Officials added that the Agrithon platform will continue to serve as a pipeline for discovering and nurturing the next generation of agripreneurs in Lagos State.
The launch of the third edition reflects ongoing efforts to build a resilient and technology-driven agricultural ecosystem capable of meeting the demands of a growing population.
