By Abbas Nazil
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to improving food and nutrition security through the nationwide adoption of biofortified crops.
Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, announced this at a national biofortification workshop held in Kano on February 14, 2026.
He said ensuring food availability alone is no longer sufficient, highlighting the need for nutritious, safe, affordable, and accessible food for all Nigerians.
Ogunbiyi noted that malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies remain major public health and economic challenges, particularly affecting women, children, and vulnerable populations.
He explained that biofortification provides a cost-effective and sustainable approach to improving nutrition, integrating essential vitamins and minerals into staple crops.
The workshop reviewed the mandate and operational framework of the National Biofortification Steering Committee, aligning it with national food and nutrition policies to ensure coordinated implementation.
Nigeria currently boasts the largest portfolio of biofortified crops globally, including iron-rich pearl millet, zinc-enriched rice, Vitamin A cassava, Vitamin A maize, and Vitamin A sweet potato.
These crops have been developed and promoted through partnerships with research institutions, ensuring that scientific innovation reaches farmers and communities across the country.
The initiative has been integrated into national agricultural and nutrition policies, with private sector participation strengthening the value chain through seed multiplication, processing, and market development.
Participants at the workshop emphasized the importance of sustained investment in research, extension services, and awareness creation to accelerate the adoption of biofortified crops nationwide.
Ogunbiyi highlighted that expanding access to biofortified crops is crucial to tackling malnutrition, enhancing public health outcomes, and supporting economic development in Nigeria.
Biofortification is seen as a key component of Nigeria’s broader food security and nutrition agenda, aligning with global efforts to combat hidden hunger and promote sustainable agricultural development.
