In a bold step toward revolutionising the aquaculture industry, the Lagos State Government has officially commenced construction of the Lagos Aquaculture Centre of Excellence (LACE) at Igbonla, Eredo, in Epe.
EpeInsights reports that the project is spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, and aims to transform fish production in the state while addressing food security, job creation, and sustainable economic development.
During a recent site visit to monitor progress, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, alongside the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, and key stakeholders, toured the project site — a sprawling 35-hectare facility set to become a game-changer for aquaculture in Nigeria.
LACE is being developed through a Public-Private Partnership between the Lagos State Government and Dula Agro-Services Limited. Once completed, the centre will feature a 50 million fish fingerlings hatchery, a 24,000-tonne feed mill, and a 20,000-tonne fish processing facility — the first of its kind not only in Lagos but across the country.
Speaking at the inspection, Commissioner Olusanya expressed excitement about the project’s potential impact. “This centre is more than infrastructure; it’s about transforming livelihoods,” she said.
“With this development, Lagos will significantly boost fish production, enhance food security, and create over 1,000 jobs across the value chain.”
Designed as a one-stop hub for fish farmers, the facility will streamline operations from hatchery to distribution. It will serve over 5,000 smallholder farms and offer aggregation, processing, and marketing services all from a centralised location.
Chairman of the Board of the Lagos Aquaculture Centre of Excellence Limited, Mr. Rotimi Erogbogbo, described the project as a “bold political statement” reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusivity and wealth creation.
“This initiative isn’t just for Lagos; it’s a national resource that empowers farmers, youths, and entrepreneurs,” he noted.
Adding to the optimism, Mr. Ifedolapo Atinmo, CEO of Dula Agro-Services, pledged timely delivery and full functionality. “This project represents growth, innovation, and sustainability for Lagos’ aquaculture sector,” he said.
As the state moves toward a more food-secure future, LACE stands as a beacon of what public-private collaboration can achieve — creating jobs, increasing local production, and establishing Lagos as a leader in agricultural innovation.
