Residents of Agege Local Government Area of Lagos State have lauded the 50 per cent food discount programme by the council, describing it as timely relief that eased household expenses and supported community welfare.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the initiative, introduced by the Chairman, Mr Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, allowed families to purchase food at half price within the local government area.
The council chairman, Mr Abdulganiyu Obasa in partnership with T.Topps Foods had offered 50 per cent discount on various food items, serving as a significant relief to residents ahead of the Ramadan and Lenten seasons.
The initiative, according to the council boss, marked the seventh edition of the monthly food relief programme by the council, which aimed to ease the financial strain on Agege’s residents during the holy periods.
Variety of food items were sold at half price, including rice, beans, garri, yam, noodles, spaghetti, different loaves of bread, cassava flour, palm oil, and frozen chicken, among others.
For example, a carton of noodles, which typically sold for ₦10,000 to ₦11,000, was sold for just ₦5,000. Similarly, a plastic paint of rice and beans, which usually retailed for ₦6,000, were available for only ₦2,500, while a crate of eggs was reduced from ₦6,000 to ₦3,000
Mrs Kudirat Adebayo, a foodstuff seller, said the programme reduced financial strain and encouraged wider participation.
Mrs Funke Oladipo, a mother of three, said: “This discount has helped me feed my children better. It is a huge relief for families struggling with rising food costs.”
Mr Ibrahim Lawal, a local artisan, remarked: “The subsidy came at the right time. My income is small but with this discount, I can buy more food and worry less.”
Sellers such as Alhaja Monsurat Bello confirmed increased patronage during the exercise.
She explained that more buyers came forward, creating a lively market atmosphere and strengthening trust between traders and residents.
Residents like Mrs Esther Okon emphasised the importance of such interventions.
She noted that affordable food programmes directly impacted household survival, urging leaders to sustain initiatives that prioritised community needs over political gains.
A youth leader, Mr James Ojo described the programme as solidarity in action.
He said the turnout showed unity among residents, adding that the discount strengthened confidence in local governance and support systems.
Market beneficiaries including Mrs Rashidat Balogun prayed for continuity.
Miss Amina Yusuf praised the initiative, urging expansion to cover more essential goods beyond food for broader community impact.
NAN reports that the 50 per cent food discount has become a symbol of relief in Agege, as beneficiaries agreed it brought hope, reduced hardship, and strengthened community resilience
