admin Nigeria has been bestowed with the honor of chairing a high-level side event on food systems transformation, organized by the United Nations (UN), to be held in Rome, Italy next month. This prestigious gathering is set to bring together global leaders, prominent figures from the agro-allied industry, and investors in food-related sectors.
Details on the Event
Dr. Famiran Sanjo, the National Convener of the Food Systems Coordination Hub, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that Nigeria was selected to chair the event due to its proactive approach in implementing the 78 action programs presented by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.
“The UN recognized Nigeria as a preferred country to share its experience on innovative farming systems in Rome since it was presented by a former Nigerian president. They expect Nigeria’s president to chair the high-level session, considering Nigeria as a champion in program implementation,” Sanjo explained.
Mr. Nebolisa Anako, the Permanent Secretary in charge of Budget and National Planning in the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, addressed participants during a meeting of nine coordinating states for the program in Nigeria. He confirmed that President Tinubu had been nominated to chair the multi-stakeholder forum, and the presidency had already been informed. “The UN Secretary-General, through the Food Systems Coordination Hub, has approved a high-level side event for Nigeria, to be chaired by the President or the Vice President. This event will provide a platform to engage investors and private organizations in the food sector to discuss innovative financing for food system transformation,” stated Anako.
Recognising Nigeria’s Efforts
The event in Rome aims to showcase Nigeria’s efforts in innovative funding for food systems, attracting private sector investments, diaspora and donor interventions, as well as foreign direct investments. The country’s achievements in the implementation process have earned it the accolade of being rated as a champion by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub.
In addition to its leadership role, the committee will function as a policy-level think-tank to ensure effective implementation of transformation pathways within Nigeria. Anako extended his appreciation to UN agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and Grand Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), for their unwavering support in Nigeria’s journey toward food security and their contributions to the country’s national development plans and global sustainability agendas.
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