World Food Day: We’re doing all we can to tackle hunger — FG

As the world marks the 2024 World Food Day with the theme “The Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” Nigeria’s Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to combating hunger and ensuring food security. According to the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdulahi, the government is focused on tackling hunger through various policy initiatives and innovative funding mechanisms. These initiatives aim to boost agricultural production, address food shortages, and make food more affordable for Nigerians.

Dr. Abdulahi highlighted significant achievements in the agricultural sector, including Nigeria’s global leadership in cassava, yam, and rice production. He further noted the release of over 102,000 metric tons of food commodities from the national food reserve to alleviate the rising cost of food and the government’s interim food importation strategy to mitigate shortages.

One of the central strategies being pursued by the current administration is the prioritization of mechanized farming to accelerate agricultural output. The government has outlined plans to cultivate 500,000 hectares of farmland dedicated to staple crops such as maize, rice, wheat, and millet. This initiative is aimed at increasing food supply and reducing inflationary pressures on food prices.

Furthermore, the government’s strategy focuses on creating inclusive economic opportunities for smallholder farmers, women, and youth, with the goal of reducing poverty and fostering sustainable agricultural growth. In collaboration with state governments and international partners, Nigeria aims to enhance its agricultural value chains and improve food security, both domestically and across West Africa.
Source: Vanguard

Expert Review for Agri-food Stakeholders
Nigeria’s commitment to addressing hunger and achieving food security is critical for stakeholders across the agribusiness sector. The government’s focus on mechanized farming and increasing staple crop production aligns with global best practices for boosting agricultural productivity and reducing food shortages. For agri-food stakeholders, this presents an opportunity to engage with government initiatives, especially in mechanization and technology adoption.

Key Considerations for Stakeholders:
Mechanization and Technology: With the government prioritizing mechanized farming, agribusinesses should explore partnerships or investments in farm machinery and advanced agricultural technologies. Mechanized farming has the potential to improve yield efficiency, reduce labor costs, and make food more affordable.

Inclusive Participation: The emphasis on smallholder farmers, women, and youth presents opportunities for stakeholders to support these groups through capacity-building programs, financing, and market access. Inclusive participation in the agricultural sector can drive rural economic growth and poverty reduction.

Mitigating Food Losses: Nigeria’s food loss of 855,629 metric tons annually highlights the need for stakeholders to address post-harvest inefficiencies. Investments in storage facilities, cold chains, and logistics are critical to reducing food losses and improving food security.

Collaboration with Government: Agribusinesses should consider forming strategic partnerships with federal and state governments to align with ongoing food security initiatives. Collaborative efforts, including public-private partnerships, are essential for scaling agricultural production and addressing challenges such as insecurity and climate change.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s push for mechanization, policy reforms, and international partnerships creates a conducive environment for stakeholders to play a transformative role in securing the nation’s food future. While challenges such as food losses and climate-related risks persist, a collaborative approach between the government, private sector, and development partners can lead to sustainable solutions that benefit all.