How Nigeria can achieve sustainable food security post COVID-19

The United Nations Food Systems Summit held in New York has shed light on the importance of scaling food systems to ensure global access to sufficient nutrition. In Africa, particularly in Nigeria, achieving sustainable food security remains a critical challenge. The summit agenda highlighted the need to address key issues such as access to food, infrastructure gaps, rising inflation, and post-harvest management in Nigeria. Akinyinka Akintunde, COO of Afex Commodities Exchange, emphasized the significance of increasing investments in infrastructure for food security and ensuring stable food commodity prices to enhance accessibility. Nigeria's potential as a key player in global food production was underscored, highlighting the importance of addressing productivity challenges and improving storage facilities to achieve self-sufficiency. Additionally, the interview addressed the critical role of research and development in enhancing food quality, nutrition, and productivity. Private sector involvement was emphasized in complementing government efforts and reducing post-harvest losses through access to finance, strategic partnerships, and improved distribution systems. Moving forward, a holistic approach involving government support, private sector engagement, and research and development investment is essential to unlock Nigeria's potential for sustainable food security post-COVID-19. The collective efforts of stakeholders are crucial in addressing the existing challenges and realizing the country's position as a key player in global food production.