Michael Akinsete, co-founder of Ecotutu, has been awarded the Agropreneur of the Year award for his outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s cold storage solutions by the Netherlands consulate.
The award celebrates Akinsete’s dedication to developing and implementing impactful solutions that address critical post-harvest loss challenges in the agricultural sector, particularly through his work at Ecotutu.
Akinsete, popularly called ‘the food system guy’ said he is incredibly honored to receive the award, while dedicating it to his team at Ecotutu.
“This recognition validates our hard work and dedication to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector by mitigating post-harvest losses through sustainable and reliable off-grid cold storage solutions,” he said.
“At Ecotutu, we believe in enabling growth for farmers and building resilient food systems for a better future.”
“We didn’t set out to win awards, but this recognition will greatly enhance our efforts to building a thriving food system in Nigeria.”
According to him, Ecotutu focuses on providing solar-powered cold storage solutions that reduce post-harvest losses for smallholder farmers and businesses.
Its innovative approach has significantly contributed to increasing the shelf life of perishable goods, improving farmers’ incomes, and reducing food waste, impacting over 6000 farmers and salvaging 70000 tons of food, he said.
Michel Delen, consul general of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Lagos, emphasised the importance of Ecotutu’s work and its alignment with Dutch-Nigerian collaborations.
“The Netherlands is proud to support innovative agropreneurs like Michael, who are driving sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria.”
“For the highly anticipated Agropreneur of the Year Award 2025, we sought an entrepreneur who has made a significant positive impact on both the Nigerian sector and society as a whole – an individual with bold plans and a clear vision for the future.”
“This year, the impossible happened: we received over 30,000 entries filled with inspiring stories and incredible videos showcasing outstanding entrepreneurs.”
The Netherlands in Nigeria Agropreneur of the Year award highlights individuals who demonstrate exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development within the Nigerian agricultural landscape.
Oluwadamilola Awe, founder of Ddee Farms and winner of the maiden edition of the award in 2024, said Ecotutu’s contributions to reducing post-harvest losses in markets like Mile12 is truly commendable, adding that their dedication to empowering local farmers and ensuring food security is making a significant difference in across communities.
Aminat, a vegetable trader in Mile 12 food market, said that; “Ecotutu’s cold storage has allowed my produce to last longer, and I can sell more, and make more money. It has changed my business.'”
