Nigeria’s quest for sustainable food security and the eradication of hunger nationwide, the World Food Programme (WFP) has pledged a substantial investment of $2.5 billion. This landmark commitment was announced by Mr. David Stevenson, the WFP country director, during a crucial meeting with the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, in Abuja on Wednesday.
The discussions held during this pivotal meeting covered various aspects of addressing hunger and humanitarian crises in Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on establishing humanitarian hubs in every local government area across the nation. Mr. Stevenson highlighted the WFP’s dedication to supporting these hubs by sourcing food locally and providing essential assistance through cash transfers and food distribution.
During the announcement, Mr. Stevenson affirmed, “Let me announce here that the World Food Programme is committed to spending 2.5 billion dollars to fight hunger in the next five years in Nigeria.” He emphasized the agency’s ongoing efforts, having already identified 2.1 million beneficiaries under the program, and expressed the intention to maintain a strong partnership with the ministry to achieve their shared goals in addressing humanitarian crises and poverty, with a specific focus on food security.
Mr. Stevenson commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment and drive to alleviate poverty and reduce humanitarian crises in Nigeria. He also praised Minister Betta Edu for her renewed vigor in tackling these challenges and expressed optimism about her ability to fulfill the mandate.
In response, Minister Edu acknowledged the significance of this intervention in tackling Nigeria’s humanitarian challenges and appealed to the WFP to collaborate closely with the ministry to achieve meaningful results. She highlighted the comprehensive nature of the ministry’s nutritional programs, targeting pregnant women, children under five years old, and school pupils.
Moreover, Minister Edu underscored the importance of aiding individuals affected by humanitarian crises, the elderly, and refugees currently residing in Nigeria. She revealed that there are over 80,000 refugees within Nigeria’s borders and outlined the ministry’s innovative approach, which involves establishing 774 humanitarian hubs in every local government area nationwide.
This commitment by the World Food Programme, alongside the proactive initiatives of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, marks a significant step towards addressing hunger and humanitarian challenges in Nigeria, offering hope for a brighter future for those in need.
