The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems It has given N150 million worth of grants for 36 new agrifood companies in the grand finale of Agrithon 2025, the flagship program created to boost agricultural innovation as well as sustainability and food security throughout Nigeria.
The event, which took place in the Workforce Zone in Gbagada, Lagos, was a further important milestone in the state’s dedication to supporting young agricultural entrepreneurs and improving the value chain of food through collaboration, innovation and inclusive growth.
Building Nigeria’s Agribusiness Future
In her remarks at the event The Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, stated that the program is a reflection of the broad-based vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu’s administration, which seeks to promote innovation and provide sustainable growth opportunities in the agriculture sector.
“The recipients of this initiative are from a variety of state and background. This proves that Lagos creates opportunities for all, while advancing the country’s vision of being food secure Nigeria,” Olusanya said.
She said that Agrithon is an Agrithon’s website is a platform for young entrepreneurs with passion to form partnerships, as well as expanding businesses that can provide viable solutions to food insecurity.
Developing Skills and Fostering Innovation
Olusanya pointed out that Olusanya emphasized that the Agrithon project isn’t just about money, but it is also about creating an environment in which mentoring, skills and collaboration are the key to growth.
“We are leveraging young minds to develop their skill sets and providing adequate support to scale and advance their businesses,” she added.
The Commissioner announced that competitions received more than 1,000 business proposals that were meticulously scrutinized and narrowed to 36 finalist following a series of rigorous steps which included writing tests, pitching sessions and interviews, mentorship programs and on-site business verification visits.
“The procedure was fair and the selection was solely based on merit. Participants came from all over Nigeria -for example, Ogun, Oyo, Anambra and many other statesdue to the fact that Lagos is Nigeria’s most important agribusiness hub.” she said.
Agrithon Process and Selection
Agrithon 2025 was an Agrithon 2025 selection process included various stages that were designed to select the most sustainable, innovative and effective agribusinesses.
- The first submission: Nearly 1,000 applicants were accepted.
- The shortlisting process: The business ideas of the participants were examined and narrowed down based on their feasibility and the potential for the potential for innovation.
- pitch stage: Business owners presented their models before the judges.
- Coaching and evaluation Participants were given intense coaching, as well as farm and business verification visits.
- Final selection: 36 start-ups were selected to receive support from the government in the amount of 150 million Naira.
Olusanya explained that the purpose of the program goes beyond financial aidit’s about creating an ecosystem of innovators that can shape the food industry’s future in Nigeria.
Creating a Legacy of Growth
The Commissioner spoke of his Agrithon program as the Agrithon initiative as a old-fashioned project that could create the next generation of billionaires and leaders of enterprise in Nigeria’s agricultural industry.
“We are able to provide N150 million for this fiscal year which is in addition to additional sponsorship assistance, in order to ensure that as the many people as are able to receive aid. The previous year, we had N100 million. In the coming year, we’ll increase the amount even more,” she stated.
Olusanya said he is confident that the project will generate permanent jobs, draw investors and make Lagos an international destination for agricultural technology innovations and Agrifood solutions.
Inclusivity and National Impact
The Commissioner stressed that Agrithon’s market isn’t restricted just to Lagos residents since many other states also do business in Lagos as their main source of business.
“Even even if your farm or business doesn’t have a base in Lagos the majority of your customers are in Lagos. Lagos is the main gateway to agricultural opportunities, and this initiative is open to everyone helping to ensure the sustainability of food production in the country,” she said.
She also noted her observation that Lagos Agrinnovation Club that houses Agrithon, the Agrithon initiative continues to encourage partnerships, collaboration, as well as investment-readyness among agribusinesses.
Participant Reactions
Many beneficiaries thanked many beneficiaries thanked the Lagos State Government for its progressive approach and commitment to empowering youth in agriculture.
One participant stated that the experience was “life-changing,” noting that the mentoring and exposure gained from the platform were just as important as the financial award.
A different beneficiary of Anambra State said:
“Agrithon has shown that Lagos is not just a city of commerce but a place where innovation in agriculture can truly thrive.”
Future Outlook
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems intends to increase the size of Agrithon. Agrithon Program by expanding its funding source and integrating more digital technology and generating export-oriented agribusiness opportunities.
Commissioner Olusanya reiterated that his administration will assist companies that are starting up to address challenges like post-harvest losses, food distribution and sustainable agricultural practices.
“We are building an ecosystem that connects agriculture with technology, finance, and innovation — a future where our youths can thrive as agripreneurs,” she said.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Agrithon 2025 |
| Organiser | Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems |
| Funding Amount | ₦150 million |
| Beneficiaries | 36 agrifood start-ups |
| Goal | To promote innovation and food sustainability in Nigeria |
| Application Received | Over 1,000 entries |
| Target Group | Young agripreneurs and food innovators |
| Program Type | Grant and mentorship-based innovation challenge |
| Venue | Workforce Zone, Gbagada, Lagos |
| Commissioner | Ms. Abisola Olusanya |
| Next Edition Goal | Funding increase beyond ₦150 million |
Conclusion
With ₦150 million in fresh grants and a growing community of innovators, Agrithon 2025 reaffirms Lagos State’s leadership in agritech empowerment and food system transformation.
The initiative not only nurtures entrepreneurial talent but also lays the foundation for a resilient, food-secure, and inclusive Nigerian economy, led by young agripreneurs shaping the future of agriculture.