In commemoration of the World Food Day, the Federal Government has been urged to invest in local farmers, promote agroecology and support equitable food distribution to create a more resilient food system that nourishes both people and planet.

The Executive Director, Spectra Industries Ltd, Oko-Oba, Lagos, Mrs Oluremi Kuteyi gave the advice during a programme organised by the company to mark the world food day.

Kuteyi noted that there is hope to turn around the food challenges facing Nigeria as the country has the knowledge and tools to transform the food system, adding that sustainable agriculture practices can enhance productivity while protecting the environment.

“Today, October 16, 2025 is Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) 80th anniversary and World Food Day. It is a step into a journey as the door of the Food and Agriculture Museum and Network open at FAO headquarters in Rome. We at Spectra in tandem with FAO deem it fit to invite the attention to the need for all to “Work, hand in hand, for better Foods and a better future.” It is for this reason we at Spectra have deemed it fit to invite our esteem guests, and fellow advocates for food security.

“As we gather to celebrate World Food Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about hunger, food security, and the importance of sustainable agriculture, this year’s theme is a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food.”

She added that looking across the globe, there is both progress and challenges on food security, noting that according to the latest report; nearly 690 million people still go hungry daily. “This is not just a statistic; it represents lives, dreams, and future unfulfilled. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, pushing millions more into food insecurity, climate change, conflict and economic instability, further threatening our food systems.

“Today, I urge each of you to take action, whether you are a policy maker, a business leader, a farmer, or a consumer, your choices matter. Advocate for policies that support food security, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices. Support local farmers and businesses; educate yourselves and others about nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet.

“Let us commit to working together to end hunger in our lifetime. Let us strive for a world where everyone has access to the food they need to strive. Together, we can build a sustainable future for generations to come.”

On his part, the Chief Executive Officer, Spectra Industries Limited, Mr. Duro Kuteyi, who went down the memory lane on how the company came into existence, advised SMEs to start their businesses ‘little by little,’ as it is risky to embark on manufacturing of many products at the same time. He added that the major challenges facing many small business is getting access to loan, adding that the banks are challenges to SMEs.

The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Industrial Training & Development, Adamson Ayinde, said the event aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration, noting that the government cannot achieve food security alone.

He noted that all Nigerians must work hand in hand, especially the private sector to support what the government is doing to eradicate hunger in the country.