News in Brief:
– The United States, through USAID, has unveiled a new plan to boost food security in Nigeria by supporting key agricultural sectors and reducing post-harvest losses.
– This initiative focuses on collaboration with the Nigerian government and prioritises rice, maize, horticulture, and private sector engagement.
According to a statement by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Nigerian Mission Director, Melissa Jones, during a press conference at the 1st Post-harvest Connect Conference and Exhibition in Abuja, there is a new Global Food Security Strategy Country Plan for Nigeria.
The event had been co-organised by the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) in collaboration with other agricultural bodies.
Jones stated that this plan aligns with US President Joe Biden’s commitment to improving food security in Nigeria. It prioritises supporting rice, maize, and horticulture value chains in six key states namely: Kaduna, Kano, Nasarawa, Plateau, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
The strategy stresses building on past successes, fostering inclusive participation, strengthening value chains, adapting to climate challenges, and engaging the private sector.
The USAID director highlighted collaborations with the Tinubu-led government agencies, particularly Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI). She said these efforts would help develop technologies and infrastructure that minimise post-harvest losses, a major contributor to food insecurity. Note that the NSPRI’s duties include looking into the best ways of improving and maintaining the quality of bulk commodity crops.
Meanwhile, Jones expressed concern about rising food prices in the country. She also observed that nearly half of Nigeria’s fresh produce is lost after harvest, which has led to hardship for many Nigerians struggling to afford basic necessities. She opined that initiatives like the above and others are indicative of the US commitment to working with Nigeria to improve food security and nutrition for its citizens.
