The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has revealed a significant investment of $2.5 billion as part of its 2023–2027 Nigeria Country Strategy Plan (CSP), focused on tackling the ongoing issues of hunger and malnutrition that impact millions in the country.
During a co-creation workshop the Head of Programme, for WFP, Seriene Loum, in Abuja, highlighted the urgent necessity for intervention. “Our main priority is the 33 million families experiencing severe hunger across 27 states. This goes beyond just a program; it is a rallying cry to protect the future of millions of Nigerians.”.
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that an alarming 3.7 million children in Northeastern Nigeria are facing issues such as malnutrition, stunted growth, wasting, and anaemia. This ongoing food insecurity crisis has been worsened by a mix of factors, including violent conflicts, rising inflation, and the effects of climate changeg.
The WFP’s approach aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 2, aimed at eliminating poverty and hunger worldwide. This five-year initiative will emphasize food technology, strengthening supply chains, enhancing nutrition, and emergency readiness. Additionally, it will concentrate on developing institutional capabilities to promote lasting advancement.
“Our goal is not just to tackle urgent needs, but also to reinforce Nigeria’s systems and foster a supportive environment for sustainable solutions to hunger,” Loum stated.
