By Milcah Tanimu

The World Food Programme (WFP) has unveiled a substantial commitment of $2.5 billion over the next five years to combat hunger in Nigeria. This announcement was made by Mr. David Stevesson, the WFP Country Director for Nigeria, during a meeting with Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, in Abuja.

Mr. Stevesson discussed the WFP’s plans to address hunger and humanitarian challenges, including establishing humanitarian hubs in every local government area. He emphasized the potential to support these hubs by sourcing food locally and providing assistance to those in need through cash transfers and food distribution.

The WFP has already identified 2.1 million beneficiaries and aims to collaborate with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to achieve sustainable food security and zero hunger across Nigeria.

Mr. Stevesson expressed enthusiasm for the commitment of President Bola Tinubu and the efforts of Minister Betta Edu to alleviate poverty and reduce humanitarian crises in Nigeria. He commended Minister Edu on her appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to fulfill her mandate.

In response, Minister Edu noted that the WFP’s intervention would significantly contribute to addressing humanitarian crises in Nigeria. She highlighted the Federal Government’s “Zero Hunger” project, designed to combat poverty and humanitarian challenges, particularly food security. Over 133 million people in Nigeria are affected by multidimensional poverty.

Minister Edu urged the WFP to collaborate with the Federal Government on various nutritional food programs aimed at vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children under five, school pupils, and refugees. She also mentioned the plan to create 774 humanitarian hubs across Nigeria to enhance the humanitarian response.

The partnership between the WFP and the Nigerian government reflects a joint commitment to addressing food security and humanitarian issues, with the goal of reducing hunger and poverty in the country.