Lagos Launches ‘Ounje Eko’ Discounted Food Markets to Ease Food Costs
Written by Deborah Oyinloye on March 17, 2024
In a bid to alleviate the impact of rising food prices, Lagos State has inaugurated the ‘Ounje Eko’ discounted food markets, set to operate exclusively on Sundays across 57 locations within the state’s five divisions.
The initiative, aimed at providing essential food items at reduced prices, has generated excitement among Lagosians as it kicks off today, Sunday, March 17, 2024.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his announcement back in February, highlighted the significance of these markets, emphasizing their role in mitigating the effects of increasing food costs on residents. He underscored the importance of accessibility to essential food items, especially in the face of economic challenges.
Residents can now avail themselves of staple food items like rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and pepper at a 25% discount, thanks to the ‘Ounje Eko’ initiative.
Gbenga Omotoso, the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, shared insights into the operational details of the food markets. He explained that a voucher system would be implemented to ensure transparency and prevent malpractices. Independent payment solution providers and carefully selected food vendors will oversee the process, providing real-time data for monitoring purposes.
Omotoso also disclosed the prices of various food items, emphasizing transparency in the pricing mechanism. For instance, a 5kg bag of rice will be sold for ₦5,325, with 1kg priced at ₦1,065. Similarly, a 5kg bag of beans will cost ₦6,225, with 1kg priced at ₦1,245. The prices of other staple food items will be communicated through various media outlets.
The ‘Ounje Eko’ markets will be operational at 57 locations spread across Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe divisions. These locations have been strategically chosen to ensure widespread accessibility for residents across the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Lagosians to cooperate with operators at the various market locations, monitor the process, and provide feedback through official channels. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in ensuring the success of the initiative and addressing the challenges of food insecurity.
Some of the designated market locations include Dairy Farm Secondary School in Agege LGA, Saka Tinubu Memorial School in Orile-Agege LCDA, AFRICAN Primary School in Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Ikorodu Grammar School in Ikorodu LGA, Zumuratu Islamiya Grammar School in Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, and Luwasa Junior High School in Ijede LCDA, among others.
The commencement of the ‘Ounje Eko’ discounted food markets marks a significant step towards ensuring food affordability and accessibility for Lagosians, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of its citizens.
Author: Deborah Oyinloye
With an interest in media, Deborah aims to impart the lives of people positively.
Adewumi Adeleke On March 22, 2024 at 10:13 am
Heard things are more expensive at this discounted market
Omadime Praise Ochuwa On March 22, 2024 at 11:59 am
This is really needed in every state