Emmanuel lkpeama
The Mile 12 International Market community is celebrating a moment of pride as its distinguished Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Usman, fondly known as Sampam, has been awarded the prestigious Dutch International Award. This global recognition further cements his reputation as a visionary leader within Nigeria’s agricultural and market ecosystem.
The award comes under the Horti Nigeria Initiative, a Dutch program launched in 2021 to bridge the gap in vegetable production by empowering smallholder farmers.
As the initiative draws to a close in 2025, champions of progress are being honored for their invaluable contributions, with Alhaji Usman emerging as one of the standout awardees.
Investigator news reports that the award was presented by His Excellency Bengt Van Loosdrecht, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, alongside Horti Nigeria Country Director, Muhammad Salasi Idris.
Governors from the South West states, along with Kano and Kaduna, sent their representatives to witness the occasion.
These six states were beneficiaries of the Dutch-backed agricultural program, and their presence highlighted the initiative’s success in fostering regional cooperation and food security.
Importantly, this international honor follows the recent inauguration of Alhaji Shehu Usman by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, as a member of the Lagos Market Advisory Council.
This dual recognition demonstrates his influence both at the state and global levels, underscoring his unique ability to bridge policy and practice.
Investigator news gathered that for Mile 12 International Market, the achievement reflects its central role as the largest hub for fresh produce in Nigeria.
Under Alhaji Usman’s leadership, the market continues to empower farmers, sustain livelihoods, and drive Nigeria’s agricultural reputation internationally.
The Dutch International Award is not only a personal accolade but also a collective victory for Nigeria’s farming and trading communities.
It highlights how dedication, innovation, and global partnerships can transform markets, elevate farmers, and inspire generations to come.
