George George Idowu
A Food System and Nutrition Specialist at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Ibrahim Ishaka, has revealed that Nigeria loses approximately 50% of its agricultural products along the food supply chain.
Speaking during an interview with journalists on the sidelines of an FAO-organised training in Yola on Saturday, Ishaka explained that these losses significantly affect the country’s food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
“Some of these challenges include technological barriers, inefficient harvesting techniques, pest infestations, and lack of access to modern farming tools, all of which contribute to losses during harvest, largely influenced by consumer behaviour,” he said.
Ishaka also identified additional factors contributing to post-harvest losses, including inadequate storage facilities, poor handling practices, and weak transportation infrastructure.
He noted that perishable goods, such as fruits and vegetables, are particularly vulnerable to these issues.
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The FAO specialist emphasized that inefficient food processing methods, improper packaging, and unhealthy consumption habits further exacerbate food waste across the country.
To address these challenges, Ishaka highlighted several FAO initiatives aimed at promoting nutritious and sustainable practices within communities. These initiatives focus on reducing post-harvest losses, improving hygiene, and enhancing sanitation.
“These initiatives include investing in post-harvest infrastructure, building community capacity, training, and empowerment programmes, among others,” he said.
He expressed optimism about the ongoing efforts, noting that the establishment of FAO-supported centres producing and distributing locally nutritious foods, such as ‘tom brown,’ has already made a positive impact in combating malnutrition and food insecurity, particularly in northeastern Nigeria.
“These centres are run by local communities, promoting community-led initiatives to improve food security,” he added.
Ishaka further stated that the training would have a long-term positive impact on participants and their communities, enhancing well-being through the adoption of improved nutrition practices.
The initiative is part of the “Emergency Agriculture-Based Livelihoods Sustenance for Improved Food Security” programme, targeting Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, with support from USAID.
(NAN)
