By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has lauded the Lagos State Government for the official launch of its ambitious “Produce for Lagos” Programme and the establishment of a ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund, describing the initiative as a visionary model that strategically links food security to national stability and resilience.
Speaking on Tuesday, July 23, 2025, at the unveiling ceremony, General Musa expressed deep admiration for the bold partnership between the Lagos State Government, private sector stakeholders, and the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company (LAFSINCO), noting that the initiative is timely and critical for addressing the country’s broader economic and security challenges.
The “Produce for Lagos” Programme is an initiative under the Lagos State Agriculture and Food Systems Roadmap (2021–2025), which aims to reduce the state’s reliance on food imports by boosting local food production, improving supply chain logistics, and ensuring consistent market access for producers. The newly launched ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund is designed to provide financial security to investors and farmers by guaranteeing the purchase of agricultural produce, thereby stimulating productivity and reducing risks across the food value chain.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the CDS praised the initiative’s data-driven design, saying it aligns perfectly with non-kinetic approaches to national security. “Food security remains one of the most effective and non-kinetic tools in preventing insecurity, poverty, and unemployment across the nation,” General Musa said. “The Lagos model presents a replicable framework that strengthens economic resilience and shields vulnerable populations from the pressures that drive instability.”
He highlighted the role of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) such as LAFSINCO, Ekolog, and the Lagos Bulk Trading Company, noting that their coordinated involvement represents a smart convergence of logistics, finance, and agricultural infrastructure. “These SPVs are not just enhancing food systems, they are protecting livelihoods, stimulating rural economies, and building buffers against economic shocks,” the CDS stated.
General Musa also commended Lagos State for its consistent excellence in governance, economic planning, and infrastructure development, citing the state as a benchmark in subnational leadership. He praised Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for sustaining the legacy of innovation and strategic thinking laid by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who served as governor of Lagos from 1999 to 2007.
“Lagos continues to lead with foresight and resolve. The ‘Produce for Lagos’ initiative is a clear demonstration of what is possible when government, the private sector, and local communities work together for sustainable progress,” he said.
Expressing gratitude for the invitation to the launch, General Musa reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to supporting developmental initiatives that promote peace and stability through non-military means. He also extended his appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support to the nation’s security architecture.
