Prioritise food security in national planning, Kukah tells FG

Matthew Kukah, Catholic bishop of Sokoto, has called on the federal government to prioritise food security in its national plans.

Kukah spoke in Abuja on Thursday during his inauguration as a trustee of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST).

The Catholic bishop said no Nigerian should go hungry or poor given the country’s abundant human and material resources.

“Poverty is a loss of dignity, and there is bound to be a crisis when a man cannot provide for his family,” Kukah said.

He noted that while building infrastructure is important, ensuring food security in Nigeria should take priority.

Speaking on the controversial issue of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), Kukah said it is more important to ensure food availability before debating their safety.

The clergy called on government agencies to collaborate in tackling the crisis, adding that hunger should not be debated, as the lack of food equates to the absence of life.

Bola Osinowo, president of NIFST, said the current global food crisis has significantly affected developing countries.

Osinowo noted that it is important for the federal government to improve collaborations with NIFST.

“Our country is at a crossroads, and the role of NIFST to ameliorate this challenge should not be underestimated,” Osinowo said.

“Food science plays a crucial role in addressing this crisis by offering solutions for increased food production, sustainable farming practices and food preservation.

“While we need to support the government at all levels for the eradication of poverty through food security.”