The recent warning from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) about 31.5 million Nigerians facing acute hunger and serious food insecurity between June and August 2024 has deeply saddened Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP).
Nigeria’s ranking as one of the 20 hungriest nations globally (109 out of 125 countries on the Global Hunger Index) is alarming, according to Obi.
He emphasized the urgent need for the government to enhance food production to combat the escalating hunger and the resulting anger in the nation, which he views as an imminent danger.
In a statement posted on his social media account, the former Anambra State governor expressed concern over the intricate challenges faced by Nigerians, including soaring living costs and high inflation rates that have engulfed the economy.
Obi lamented the situation where many households in Nigeria are now allocating a significant portion of their income solely to food expenses, leaving other essential family needs uncertain.
Addressing the pressing issue, Obi stressed the importance of proactive measures to avert the impending crisis and emphasized the transition from consumption to production as a vital strategy in combating hunger in Nigeria. He urged substantial investments in agriculture, especially in the vast arable lands predominantly found in the Northern regions.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Obi highlighted the need for immediate actions to boost food production and mitigate the growing hunger and associated frustrations among the populace.
The hindrance faced by farmers due to insecurity and terrorist activities, coupled with adverse impacts of monetary policies on small agricultural businesses, necessitates government intervention to bolster agricultural productivity and ensure food security.
Obi underlined that securing farmers and providing adequate support is crucial in augmenting food production, reiterating the focus on building a productive Nigeria in line with the vision for a New Nigeria with brighter possibilities.
