Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated the firm commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu in addressing the core challenge of food security in Nigeria, especially tackling the menace of malnutrition.
The Vice President said a strengthened collaboration with global bodies and other key stakeholders would go a long way in supporting the efforts of both federal and state authorities.
VP Shettima stated this on Monday when he received on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, a delegation from the World Food Programme (WFP) led by its Executive Director, Mrs Cindy McCain.
“The President has given his commitment towards addressing the core challenge of food security. He has declared a commitment towards tackling food insecurity and there is a need for us for further collaboration between the WFP and the government of Nigeria on strengthening food systems and improving nutrition in the country,” the VP stated.
The Vice President said it was in line with the President’s vision for food security in Nigeria that “the Nigerian government is introducing the school feeding programme to tackle malnutrition among children.”
He sought further collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and the WFP, especially in strengthening food systems and fighting malnutrition.
Recalling the support of the WFP to Borno state when he was Governor, the VP Shettima said; “Right from my days as a governor in Borno, we have had a very close working relationship with the WFP. They were there for us in our times of need, they stood by us and solidarised with us without playing to the gallery.”
“I thank you, most sincerely for all of your efforts and I want to request for more. The Governor of Borno is a very committed and upright gentleman. He is fully committed to the welfare of the people and he needs more support. But the challenge in Borno as it is elsewhere across the country, is humongous,” he added.
In her remarks, Mrs McCain said she was in the country with her team to explore areas of further collaboration between Nigeria and the World Food Programme with the view to addressing the challenges faced by the people.
She said the WFP is thrilled about the initiatives by the government to address the challenges of food security and malnutrition, noting that “the unique potential to explore Africa-led solutions to the challenges is exciting and commendable.”
She pledged the organization’s continued support and partnership with authorities at different levels in Nigeria to help alleviate the sufferings of the people especially in the areas affected by conflict.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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