NIGERIANS SPEND 65% OF SALARY ON FOOD AS UN CALLS FOR DEDICATED BUDGETARY ALLOCATION TO CURB FOOD INSECURITY
A staggering 65% of Nigerians’ salaries go towards food consumption, far exceeding the acceptable rate of 5-6%, according to the United Nations (UN). This revelation has led the UN to urge the federal government to allocate dedicated funds in the budget to address food insecurity, a pressing issue directly linked to national security.
Dr. Hameed Nuru, Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) Africa Union Global Office, emphasized that food security is crucial for Nigeria’s future and national security. Despite having natural resources, Nigeria’s food insecurity situation is alarming, with 36 active conflicts in Africa and a predicted one million malnourished children by August this year.
“Nigeria is a hotspot for food insecurity, and it’s unacceptable that citizens spend over 65% of their salary on food consumption,” Dr. Nuru said. “The country needs a dedicated budget for food security, rather than spreading it across other ministries’ budgets.”
The WFP director highlighted the importance of harnessing indigenous foods and promoting agriculture for wealth, rather than solely for subsistence. He also stressed the need to attract youth to the agricultural sector and support the African Free Continental trade agreement.
The UN’s call to action comes as Nigeria faces a bleak food security future, with conflicts, insecurity, and climate change exacerbating the issue. The country spent a staggering $60.8 billion on food imports, compared to $15 trillion spent globally on conflict and ammunition.
The WFP aims to assist 1.1 million vulnerable people in northern Nigeria, including displaced individuals, host communities, and those returning home after months of displacement.
In her remarks, Prof Oyebisi Azeez, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, celebrated the legacy of Prof Nuru and reflected on the impact of his work on the faculty, university, and humanity/animals globally.
The event highlighted the need for a holistic approach to food security, safety, and diseases, and the importance of a dedicated budget to address Nigeria’s pressing food insecurity challenges.
