A policy advocacy and professional group operating within the Sydani Group umbrella have raised concerns regarding the escalating number of malnourished individuals in Nigeria and the breakdown of the food supply chain within the nation.
The group emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian/Ukraine conflict, and the energy crises in Nigeria have exacerbated food shortages, leaving more than 25 million citizens facing severe food insecurity.
The advocacy group further highlighted that ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers, as well as acts of terrorism, kidnapping for ransom, and widespread insecurity, have forced farmers to abandon their lands, resulting in a significant increase in food prices across Nigeria.
During a media round table held at its Complex in Abuja, the group called upon the federal, state, and local governments in Nigeria to urgently address the numerous challenges confronting the nation.
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Additionally, the Sydani Group stressed the importance of leveraging technological advancements across various sectors to tackle Nigeria’s issues effectively.
The Sydani Group specifically outlined key areas requiring immediate government intervention, including agriculture, education, healthcare, human capital development, environmental concerns, climate change, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Godfrey Petgrave, speaking on behalf of the group, emphasized the critical nature of the food crises in Nigeria, underscoring the neglect of smallholder farmers who hold potential solutions to the problem.
Godfrey Petgrave warned that the food crises could persist if authorities do not address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, the security issues driving farmers away from their lands, and the energy crises contributing to increased transportation costs nationwide.
Citing statistics from reputable organizations such as the United Nations and the Food and Agricultural Organization, he highlighted the global issue of over 700 million undernourished individuals, with more than 25 million of them residing in Nigeria.
