Nigeria Needs $4.9 Billion Annually to Eradicate Hunger, Lawmaker States

Nigeria Needs $4.9 Billion Annually to Eradicate Hunger, Lawmaker States

Nigeria requires an annual investment of $4.9 billion to effectively eliminate hunger, according to Gboyega Isiaka, a member of the House of Representatives representing the Imeko-Afon/Yewa North Federal constituency.

 Speaking at the 26th Annual Global Lecture hosted by the Alumni of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Isiaka highlighted the critical impact of ongoing insecurity on agricultural production and food supply in the country.

As the Chairman of the Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing Committee, Isiaka pointed out that achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of eradicating hunger by 2030 is increasingly challenged by armed conflicts and violence. He noted that these issues disrupt agricultural activities and supply chains, leading to significant food shortages.

“Insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges for Nigerian agriculture,” Isiaka stated. He elaborated on how rising armed conflicts have forced farmers to abandon their lands and communities, exacerbating the food crisis. The ongoing violence not only threatens lives but also affects farmers' mental well-being, deterring them from engaging in agricultural activities and reducing productivity.

The Institute of Sustainable Development has identified the need for an additional $4.9 billion per year from now until 2030 for Nigeria to meet the SDG 2, which focuses on ending hunger and achieving food security.