Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has emphasized that smart packaging is critical for ensuring food security in Nigeria, boosting non-oil exports, and enhancing foreign exchange earnings. Speaking at the 11th edition of the Propak West Africa 2024 Smart Packaging Conference, held in Victoria Island, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu called it a “national priority” that can redefine the nation’s economic future.
Represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the Governor highlighted the importance of smart packaging in reducing food waste and addressing Nigeria’s post-harvest losses. “Despite our rich agricultural resources, we still face significant post-harvest losses due to inadequate processing, packaging, and storage,” Sanwo-Olu noted. “In fact, up to 40 percent of food produced in Nigeria is lost before it reaches the consumer.”
Themed “Unlocking Nigeria’s Food Security: Implementation of Sustainable Packaging to Reduce Food Waste,” the conference was organized in collaboration with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and other stakeholders. It focused on innovative packaging solutions to help preserve food, reduce waste, and drive economic growth.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for innovation in smart packaging and sustainable plastics. “Our policies must reflect our commitment to foster innovation, support local manufacturing, and enforce responsible plastic usage,” he added.
The Governor’s remarks come at a time when Nigeria’s agricultural sector is grappling with food losses due to inefficiencies in storage and packaging. As part of the state’s ongoing efforts, Lagos continues to explore partnerships with key industry players to enhance food security through technology and innovation.
