In an effort to further alleviate the hardship caused by the high cost of food items, the Lagos State Government has announced that the second phase of the Ounje Eko Food Discount Market will kick off on September 1 across the metropolis.
The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, announced the reintroduction of the Ounje Eko Food Discount Market at a media briefing in Alausa, Ikeja.
She stated that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the second phase of the 25% Ounje Eko Discount Market, which will run for at least eight consecutive weeks across 64 centers in Local Government Areas, the Alausa Secretariat, Lekki Phase One, and within campuses of state-owned tertiary institutions.
The Commissioner noted that over 250,000 residents benefited from the first phase of the exercise, which lasted six weeks.
She disclosed that the second phase of the Ounje Eko Sunday Market will be held from 10 am to 5 pm every Friday in tertiary institutions, and on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Food Hub in Mushin.
According to her, the food items will be sold by local vendors at prevailing market prices in different locations.
Olusanya assured residents of the safety of lives and property, adding that the police and other security agencies have been engaged to maintain order, while LAWMA officials will ensure the cleanliness of the market environment.
She added that for the smooth running of the exercise, each location would be led by a market leader supported by staff from the Ministry, the National Youth Council, and local government officials.
The Commissioner pointed out that besides providing food items at discounted rates, the initiative will also engage about 6,000 personnel and 3,000 businesses that will supply food items, transportation, logistics, and other necessities.
On his part, the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, urged the media to be wary of fake news, adding that some people are intent on discrediting the program.
He noted, however, that despite the fact that Lagos is not an agricultural state, it has successfully implemented policies that have boosted food production and created jobs for the unemployed.
Some of the food items available for purchase at a 25% discount at the market include rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, pepper, and onions.
