AfDB, WFP and IFPRI Unite to Boost Food Security in Northern Nigeria
The African Development Bank (AfDB), the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) have jointly launched a report calling for innovative investment to rebuild northern Nigeria’s food systems and strengthen agricultural resilience.
Unveiled during the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, the report titled Investing in Innovative Food Systems Solutions in Challenging Contexts outlines practical steps for revitalising northern Nigeria’s agriculture, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
The report urges coordinated, evidence-based investments to restore livelihoods, drive inclusive growth, and build long-term resilience. It identifies eight key crops—sorghum, millet, maize, wheat, cowpeas, soybeans, groundnuts and tomatoes—as strategic entry points for investment.
During the launch, Agriculture Minister Senator Abubakar Kyari said efforts were underway to bring storage facilities closer to production zones. Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II stressed the need for consistent, private-sector-led approaches to strengthen agricultural value chains and reduce poverty.
AfDB Nigeria Director General Abdul Kamara highlighted the Bank’s $900 million agricultural portfolio, noting that initiatives such as the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones and the National Agriculture Growth Scheme were driving value addition and productivity.
IFPRI Executive Director Dr Steven Were Omamo said the study provides data-driven guidance for smarter, evidence-based policymaking, while WFP Nigeria Country Director David Stevenson emphasised the need to move from emergency aid to market-led, climate-smart solutions.
The three organisations urged governments, investors and partners to adopt the report’s framework to promote sustainable, food-secure and resilient communities across northern Nigeria.
