In a significant pledge aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s journey towards sustainable food security and eradicating hunger, the World Food Programme (WFP) has announced a commitment of $2.5 billion. The announcement was made by Mr. David Stevesson, the WFP Country Director, during a meeting with Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, in Abuja.

Stevesson discussed a range of initiatives during the meeting, including strategies to achieve zero hunger and the establishment of humanitarian hubs in every local government area across Nigeria. He emphasized the WFP’s potential to support these hubs by procuring food locally and providing assistance to those in need through cash transfers and food distribution.

“I am pleased to announce that the World Food Programme is dedicated to investing $2.5 billion in the fight against hunger in Nigeria over the next five years,” Stevesson declared.

Under the program, the WFP has already identified 2.1 million beneficiaries and is eager to maintain a strong partnership with the Ministry to reach its targets. Stevesson also commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to poverty reduction and the alleviation of humanitarian crises in Nigeria.

“We are inspired by President Bola Tinubu’s commitment and the Minister’s drive to eradicate poverty and reduce humanitarian crises in Nigeria. The enthusiasm the Minister brings to this space gives us hope that we will achieve significant progress together,” Stevesson added.

In response, Minister Betta Edu expressed her gratitude for the WFP’s commitment and underscored the importance of the intervention in addressing the country’s humanitarian challenges.

“The ‘Zero Hunger’ initiative is part of our efforts to combat poverty and respond to humanitarian needs. We urge the WFP to collaborate with us to achieve our goals, as this intervention will significantly address some of the most pressing challenges facing our nation,” Edu stated.

She further highlighted that over 133 million people in Nigeria are affected by multidimensional poverty and outlined various nutritional programs, including the National Homegrown School Feeding initiative. These programs are designed to target pregnant women, children under five, school pupils, and individuals affected by humanitarian crises, including refugees.

Edu also introduced the concept of “humanitarian hubs” as part of the Ministry’s innovative approach to revamp the humanitarian response in the country. These hubs, with plans to establish 774 of them across every local government area in Nigeria, are set to play a crucial role in addressing the multifaceted challenges of poverty and humanitarian crises nationwide.

The WFP’s substantial commitment reflects the urgency and dedication of both national and international entities in addressing hunger and improving food security in Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s development and well-being.