It is an honor to stand before you today at this momentous occasion—the Warehouse Launch of the Lagos Food Bank Initiative. The Lagos Food Bank Initiative is a non-profit, private-driven initiative committed to fighting malnutrition and hunger, through targeted programs that seeks to improve the nutrition/food intake of pregnant women and their infants; students in public primary and secondary schools and the youths in the underserved communities.

This initiative since 2016, has been positively impacting lives and bringing succor to rural and under-served communities in Lagos State with over 2,000,000 beneficiaries, especially, children between the ages of 0-16 years, the youths and vulnerable women. I commend Mr. Michael A. Sunbola, the Founder/Executive Director of the Lagos Food Bank Initiative and his team for your deep commitment to this calling of advancing the cause of the voiceless and reaching out to the downtrodden, the needy and the less privileged in our society. This laudable initiative has also provided sources of livelihood to many families especially in the food and agricultural sector. 

It is deeply gratifying to see this initiative actively operating within our Lagos communities, complementing our administration’s efforts to empower young men and women in agricultural businesses and ensuring that every Lagosian has access to food. We are proud to associate with your organization and deeply appreciate the impactful work you are doing.

The warehouse we are launching today marks a significant milestone. It will not only enable you to reach more people in need but also solidify your organization’s position as a leading nonprofit dedicated solely to serving humanity. 

As a government deeply committed to addressing food insecurity, social development, and welfare challenges, we have implemented initiatives like Eko Cares and other social intervention programs, alongside robust support for smallholder farmers. These efforts are strengthening food security across Lagos and improving the lives of our citizens. However, we recognize that we cannot achieve these goals alone.

That is why we highly value and actively seek collaboration with private organizations, civil society groups, and compassionate individuals. Initiatives like the Lagos Food Bank Initiative are vital partners in this journey, and we are grateful for their dedication and support. 

To the corporate partners, donors, and volunteers who have invested in this vision, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your contributions are not just making a difference—they are transforming lives and bringing hope to countless families across Lagos. Thank you for being part of this noble cause.

To the entire team at the Lagos Food Bank Initiative, your dedication is truly inspiring. Your tireless efforts to serve those in need do not go unnoticed, and as a government, we are committed to supporting initiatives like yours. Beyond today, we are taking concrete steps to boost local food production, improve logistics, and strengthen social safety nets to ensure that no Lagosian is left behind.

As we cut the ribbon today, let it symbolize more than just the opening of a warehouse. Let it stand as a testament to our shared commitment—a reminder that Lagos is not only a city of commerce and industry but also a city of compassion and community. 

Congratulations to the Lagos Food Bank Initiative on this incredible milestone. Today’s achievement is more than just a moment to celebrate, it is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together with shared purpose and determination. Your work is a beacon of hope, and it inspires us all to do more, give more, and care more.

We are not just building a stronger Lagos; we are creating a city where opportunity, equity, and compassion are at the heart of everything we do. A city where no one is left behind, and where every family can thrive. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to this vision, and for reminding us all of the power of unity and kindness.

Thank you!

Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu

Governor of Lagos State.

13TH FEBRUARY, 2025.