In a remarkable display of commitment to agricultural development and sustainability, Stanbic IBTC, a member of Standard Bank Group, has partnered with the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) and the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems for a successful 2026 Lagos Farm Fair. Held recently in Ikeja, Lagos, the event is organised annually to celebrate World Food Day. This year’s event brought together over 2,000 farmers and agro-processors, more than 10,000 shoppers and other agricultural stakeholders for trade and collaboration.
Under the theme, Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow, the farm fair highlighted the pivotal role of sustainable food systems and the urgent need for innovative approaches in agriculture amid climate change. The fair served as a vital platform for market linkages and input support, enabling local farmers to connect with buyers and explore innovative agricultural practices. Exhibitors showcased cutting-edge tools and sustainable methods designed to boost productivity while addressing pressing environmental concerns.
In his opening remarks, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, represented by Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a food system that is available, accessible, affordable, nutritious, and sustainable. He stated, “We must be guided by five priorities. First, we need to accelerate innovation and adopt appropriate technology. Second, we should strengthen partnerships with food-producing states, investors, development partners, and research institutions, as Lagos cannot achieve food security alone. Third, it is essential to invest in the people who drive our food economy by providing access to skills, finance, technology, and markets. Fourth, we must reduce post-harvest losses by improving storage, processing, logistics, and market coordination. Finally, we should strive to achieve affordability, nutrition, and sustainability.”
Commenting on the partnership, Wole Adeniyi, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, stated, “At Stanbic IBTC, we believe Nigeria’s farmers and agribusinesses are built for growth. However, realising that potential requires access to the right knowledge, markets, finance, technology and partnerships. Through platforms such as the Lagos Farm Fair, we are helping to create the connections and opportunities that enable agricultural businesses to become more productive, build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s food security and economic growth.”
Yewande Adedayo, Acting Head of Client Coverage in the Corporate & Investment Banking arm of Stanbic IBTC Bank stated Stanbic IBTC’s steadfastness in its commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem and promoting sustainable livelihoods; recognising the significance of agriculture, not only to the economy, but also to the livelihoods of countless individuals and communities.
Ruth Owojaiye, Director of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), stated, “As we celebrate World Food Day, let’s honour the essential role of farmers in our nation’s sustainability. Every meal and success story in agriculture stems from their dedication. We must confront challenges like climate change and limited resources with innovative, inclusive solutions, ensuring that women, youth, and smallholder farmers can access the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation.”
At the 2026 Lagos Farm Fair, the shared commitment to fostering a sustainable agricultural environment was clear. Stanbic IBTC is dedicated to nurturing innovation and empowering farmers, paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future for Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Through initiatives like the Lagos Farm Fair, Stanbic IBTC reinforces its leadership in supporting food sustainability, driving positive change and fostering a robust agricultural economy.