Nigeria's VP demands accountability for food security funds

Vice President Kashim Shettima of Nigeria has issued a strong call for greater accountability in the federal government's food security initiatives. He stressed that public resources allocated to these programs must translate into tangible benefits for Nigerian farmers, markets, and households.

Speaking at the seventh meeting of the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU) Steering Committee in Abuja, Shettima, who chaired the session, emphasized the need for "stronger visibility and accountability across ongoing interventions." The meeting brought together state governors, federal ministers, private sector leaders, and development partners to assess Nigeria's food systems and coordinate strategies for boosting domestic production and ensuring food availability.

The committee focused on measures to support farmers as the main harvest season approaches. Discussions included enhancing domestic food production, improving the logistics of moving food from producing regions to consumers, and strengthening strategic food reserves. The group also examined factors influencing food prices, such as transportation, distribution, levies, and market access.

“

called for stronger visibility and accountability across ongoing interventions.

According to the PFSCU, Shettima highlighted the importance of coordinated action among federal and state governments, the private sector, and relevant institutions to effectively implement President Bola Tinubu's food security agenda. The Executive Secretary of the PFSCU, Marion Moon, stated that the government will increasingly rely on evidence to guide its interventions, ensuring support is directed precisely where it can make the most significant difference.

Governors present also advocated for farmers to remain central to agricultural policies, prioritizing irrigation, input access, financing, production support, and market access. The Minister of Finance underscored the need to align domestic production strategies with trade policies, noting that trade measures can complement local output and address supply shortages.

“

Our focus is to ensure that the Government has the evidence to act early and precisely – supporting farmers, improving the movement of food, strengthening preparedness and directing interventions to where they can make the greatest difference.