The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing policies and actions aimed at achieving a zero-waste future.
Speaking at the International Day of Zero Waste 2026 in Abuja, with the theme “Food Waste—Towards Sustainable Consumption and Production” the Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Lawal, highlighted efforts to reduce food loss and waste, strengthen sustainable food systems, promote circular economy solutions, and safeguard the environment for future generations.
Mr. Lawal emphasized that public awareness and behavioral change are central to achieving these goals. He called for action at every stage of the food value chain, urging farmers to adopt improved storage and processing technologies, and food businesses and retailers to implement more efficient inventory and distribution systems.
According to him, “The choices we make today will determine the sustainability of our food systems, the health of our environment, and the wellbeing of our communities.”
He noted that the collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Environment, the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing global environmental challenges.
“Reducing Food waste requires action at every stage of the food value chain, farmers must be supported with improved storage, preservation and processing technologies. Food businesses and retailers must adopt more efficient inventory and distribution systems,” Mr. Lawal said, adding that Nigeria’s food security concerns make waste reduction particularly critical. “When food is wasted, so too are the resources invested in its production, transportation, and processing. Improper disposal also contributes significantly to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.”
He appreciated the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, UNIDO, and all stakeholders for their collaboration and commitment to advancing sustainable environmental management in Nigeria.
He also urged all participants to actively engage in the discussions and activities planned for today and to carry forward the message of reducing food waste and promoting sustainable consumption and production within their respective institutions and communities.
Tackling Food Waste Promotes Economic Grown
The Deputy Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Zissimos Vergos, highlighted that tackling food waste strengthens resilience, protects vulnerable populations, and promotes economic growth.
He stressed the need for investments in infrastructure, cold chains, modern technologies, and innovations in logistics, packaging, and quality standards.
“By approaching food waste through the lens of industrial transformation, we can create jobs, improve food security, and build a more sustainable and inclusive future,” he added.
UNIDO’s Ambassador Phibert Johnson described food waste as a sign of inefficiency within agro-industrial systems. He noted that avoidable losses across harvesting, processing, storage, packaging, and distribution reduce productivity, wealth creation, and competitiveness for farmers and businesses.
“Food is more than a commodity; it is a foundation of wealth, a driver of health, and a pillar of security. It sustains households. supports industries, and underpins the stability of our societies. When food systems function efficiently, they generate income, enhance resilience, and improve well-being When food systems fail, when food is lost or wasted, the consequences ripple across our economies, our environment, and our communities.,” he said.
The event provided a platform for policymakers, industry actors, development partners, academia, youth groups, and civil society organizations to discuss practical and scalable solutions for reducing food waste and promoting sustainable food systems.