WFP Approves $2.56bn To Combat Hunger In Nigeria

The World Food Programme (WFP), country director to Nigeria, David Stevenson, has announced the approval of a new Country Strategic Plan (CSP), for Nigeria.

In a joint media briefing with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, the country director said the CSP, valued at US$2.56 billion, outlines WFP’s comprehensive assistance portfolio for Nigeria from 2023 to 2027, aimed at achieving food security and improved nutrition in line with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2), of zero hunger.

Stevenson said the CSP is not limited to addressing hunger alone but also seeks to contribute to progress in areas such as good health and wellbeing, inclusive education, gender equality and climate action.

Additionally, he said the plan aims to strengthen the national humanitarian and development response, forging a reinforced partnership between WFP, the government and other stakeholders. 

He also said technical assistance and policy advice will also be provided to maximize the government’s investment in food security and nutrition.

Effective from March 2023, the CSP aligns with Nigeria’s National Development Plan (2021-2025), Nigeria Agenda (2050), the National Multi-Sectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition (2021-2025), and the National Humanitarian Development Peace Framework. Furthermore, it is consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Nigeria (2023-2027).

He emphasised WFP’s commitment to delivering frontline results in Nigeria, working alongside partners who share the organization’s vision of Zero Hunger.

He said by operating a food system that sees conflict as a hindrance to progress, WFP not only saves lives but also invests in the Nigerian economy.

Stevenson said over 90 per cent of the food distributed by WFP to vulnerable individuals is purchased locally, contributing over $775,000 per day to the Nigerian economy.

He, however, said the success of the CSP is contingent upon the level of resources provided by donors to WFP.