Following Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s announcement regarding the commencement of the “Ounje Eko” food markets in Lagos State on Sunday, March 17, Lagosians are anticipated to flock to various locations across the state to purchase food items at discounted prices.
The initiative, aimed at mitigating the impact of high living costs, entails the operation of food markets exclusively on Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm across 57 locations in the state.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, disclosed that the markets would offer a 25 per cent discount on staple food items such as rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and pepper.
In a bid to ensure transparency and prevent malpractices, a voucher system will be implemented, and independent payment solution providers and food vendors have been carefully selected to oversee the process.
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The prices of food items were also provided, with a 5kg bag of rice priced at N5,325, a 5kg bag of beans at N6,225, and a 5kg bag of garri at N3,975. Additionally, prices for other essentials such as tomatoes, pepper, onions, bread, and eggs were detailed.
Various designated locations across different local government areas and LCDAs in Lagos, including Agege, Ikorodu, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Kosofe, and Ikosi Isheri, were identified for the discounted markets.
While some Lagos residents expressed excitement and appreciation for the initiative, others voiced concerns about potential congestion and safety risks. Nonetheless, many residents expressed their intentions to take advantage of the opportunity to purchase affordable food items and stock up their homes.
