The Lagos State Government has made significant strides in improving the red meat sales process in the metropolis by ensuring proper hygiene before the product reaches consumers.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, announced these advancements at the launch of the Last Mile Meat Shops and Butchers Academy in Alausa.
Speaking at the event held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, Ms. Olusanya explained that the initiative aims to boost consumer confidence in meat products and present them attractively with standard facilities to engage and attract young people into the industry.
She highlighted that the initiative encourages residents to view butchery positively and dispels the notion that it is a profession for the unenlightened. The 20-foot containers used in this pilot scheme can be easily relocated, enhancing the program’s flexibility.
Each meat shop will be operated by four youths, who will handle cows slaughtered at government-approved abattoirs, ensuring hygienic processing and distribution.
Ms. Olusanya called for private sector collaboration to expand the scheme, noting plans to upgrade from 20-foot to 40-foot containers.
She explained that this initiative is part of the Lagos State Agriculture Roadmap. Initially, the plan was to launch 20 shops, but this was reduced to five for the pilot phase.
The introduction of the Eko Meat Van has modernized meat transportation, eliminating unwholesome practices.
Hon. Emmanuel Olotu, Chairman of the Lagos House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, praised the Ministry for innovative ideas that enhance food quality and accessibility. He urged the Butchers Association to apply their training from the Butchers Academy.
Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, emphasized that this initiative ensures quality control and value for money, with meat sold by weight in kilograms.
Mr. Emmanuel Audu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, described the event as groundbreaking. He emphasized the importance of food safety and quality, noting the significance of hygienic meat distribution.
Alhaji Kazeem Bakare, Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of the Butchers Association, thanked the government for the innovative project, promising that it would encourage members to return to the profession from other jobs.
The Last Mile Meat Shops are located in the Ijeh area of Dolphin Estate, Surulere, and Mushin.
