August 6, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
In a bold move to address food insecurity and ensure greater access to affordable and nutritious food, the Ekiti State Government has officially launched the ‘Ounje Ekiti’ Retail Outlet, a major initiative under the Ekiti State Food Security Project.
The retail outlet, which was unveiled in Ado-Ekiti, is strategically designed to serve as a central hub where residents across the state can purchase staple food items at prices significantly lower than prevailing market rates. According to government officials, the aim is to ease the burden of high food costs on citizens while promoting healthier dietary habits.
Speaking at the launch event, Governor Biodun Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing food sufficiency and affordability for all Ekiti residents. He noted that the ‘Ounje Ekiti’ outlet is not just a retail centre, but a carefully thought-out solution to key challenges in the food supply chain.
The ‘Ounje Ekiti’ hub also targets the reduction of post-harvest losses by improving food storage, aggregation, and distribution mechanisms. Through this, the government hopes to strengthen food resilience in the state and create a more efficient and inclusive food economy.
Residents who spoke at the launch commended the government for the timely intervention, especially amid the rising cost of living. They expressed optimism that the project would bring relief to many families struggling with food expenses.
The Ekiti State Food Security Project, under which this outlet operates, is part of a broader state-led agenda to achieve zero hunger, stimulate rural economic growth, and support the agricultural value chain. More retail outlets are expected to be established across local government areas in the coming months.
As food inflation continues to pose a national challenge, Ekiti’s proactive approach has been described by analysts as a model for other states seeking to localize solutions to food insecurity.
