United nations WFP Allocates $2.5 Billion for Nigeria’s Five-Year Hunger Eradication Initiative
In a significant move to combat hunger and enhance nutrition across Nigeria, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has earmarked $2.5 billion for its 2023-2027 Nigeria Country Strategy Plan (CSP). The announcement was made during a co-creation workshop held in Abuja, which was organized in partnership with the National Social Investment Programme Agency (N-SIPA). This ambitious initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 2, which focus on eradicating poverty and hunger, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
Mr. Seriene Loum, Head of Programme at WFP Nigeria, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to collaborating with United Nations member states, particularly Nigeria, to mobilize necessary resources for executing the plan effectively.
The strategy is structured around five key pillars aimed at enhancing food security, elevating nutritional standards, and reinforcing emergency response. It includes advancements in food technology, supply chain improvements, and preparation for crisis situations. “Our aim is to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry,” Loum stated.
As Nigeria is home to one of Africa’s most extensive social safety net programs, the WFP views the nation as an essential ally in the fight against food insecurity. Loum highlighted a concerning statistic from the latest Cadre Harmonisé report, which indicates that approximately 25 million Nigerians are currently experiencing acute food insecurity, a figure projected to rise to 33 million between June and August 2025. He underscored the urgent need for collaboration between WFP and the Nigerian government to alleviate this crisis.
NSIPA Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Badamasi Lawal, reinforced this perspective, advocating for a united front against poverty and hunger. Represented by Mrs. Uche Obi, Director of Human Resources Management, Lawal commended WFP for its support in enhancing Nigeria’s social protection initiatives, which include the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP), Conditional Cash Transfers, and the N-Power initiative.
“The expertise that WFP brings in food security, nutrition, and emergency preparedness is vital in fortifying our efforts. This partnership illustrates the power of international cooperation aimed at creating a fair and prosperous society,” Obi remarked.
According to Lawal, WFP’s investment has been crucial in fostering constructive dialogue among stakeholders. “Your dedication to the development of Nigeria and its populace is immensely valued,” he concluded.
As food insecurity escalates due to economic instability and climate-related issues, the WFP’s intervention signifies a vital step towards protecting the millions of Nigerians in need. Established in 2016 and becoming a fully-fledged agency in 2023, the NSIPA has already made significant strides through initiatives such as the NHGSFP, Conditional Cash Transfers, and the N-Power scheme, benefiting millions by offering economic empowerment, education, and improved living conditions.
Obi pointed out that WFP’s knowledge in food security and emergency response will bolster Nigeria’s capabilities to devise sustainable hunger solutions. With the dual challenges of economic downturn and climate change worsening food crises, WFP’s involvement aims to provide lasting relief and elevate the condition of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations through strengthened partnerships with the Nigerian government and other stakeholders.
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