Piqued at the rising food insecurity situation in the country, the South West East North Of Nigeria Cord. initiative, (SOWENON) have called on the federal government to refocus it’s attention on addressing the challenges, rather than investing in infrastructure development.

The National Coordinator, Dr Sam Jenfa in a statement stated that while government has invested in infrastructure development, it will be difficult for ordinary Nigerians to appreciate these achievements when the daily struggle for food dominates their lives. He said “Hunger remains a powerful and pressing reality for millions of households across the country.”

Highlighting  the growing food shortage in the country, Dr Jenfa harped on the need for government to further empower farmers and other actors in the Agricultural value chain.

While stressing the need for a honest economic assessment and wondered the quality of advice being provided to the President. He said “Some advisers appear determined to paint a picture of economic prosperity, suggesting that all is well. However, the experiences of many Nigerians tell a different story.”

He said “The reality is that the challenge of rising  cost of living , unemployment, hunger, malnutrition, and poor health conditions caused by food insecurity still exist”. He  called on  policymakers to be willing to confront these realities honestly if meaningful solutions are to be achieved.

He however applauded  President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration for some recorded successes including the rescue of students and  teachers of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by Nigerian security agencies, continued fight against  banditry a d kidnapping, but mentioned that Improved security will encourage farmers to return to their fields and restore agricultural production”.

The National Coordinator  of SOWENON called for improved access to affordable finance, modern equipment, and government support to improve productivity and increase food supply.

He further acknowledged the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Kano Standard Gauge Railway, stressing  that the strategic transportation corridor will strengthen intercity connectivity, linking the Atlantic port city of Lagos to Kano through Abuja, the nation’s capital.

He said  railway  promote trade, reduce transportation costs, facilitate the movement of goods and people, and create new business opportunities across the country.

He also lauded the agreement  signed between the federal government and the  Abu Dhabi Ports Group valued at about $50 billion aimedl to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime sector, improve trade competitiveness, attract foreign investment, and create employment opportunities. He said successful implementation of the partnership will contribute substantially to Nigeria’s long-term economic growth and development.

Dr Jenfa noted although the Tinubu administration has introduces several initiatives aimed at improving the economy, but it’s difficult for many citizens to recognise these gains because of the severe poverty and hardship affecting large segments of the population.

“Many Nigerians continue to endure conditions that test the limits of human endurance. Economic reforms may offer long-term benefits, but their impact will remain difficult to appreciate if immediate concerns such as hunger, unemployment, and rising living costs are not adequately addressed.”

“Despite its challenges, Nigeria remains one of Africa’s leading economies. The country ranks among the world’s largest economies by nominal GDP and holds a strong position in Africa in terms of purchasing power and economic potential.”

“As a nation, we must condemn banditry and hold accountable those who sponsor violence and instability. Above all, we must prioritise love, peace, unity, and national development. If we truly believe in the greatness of Nigeria, then we must work together to restore hope and build a future that benefits all citizens.”

 He said although there are encouraging signs of progress through infrastructure development, security improvements, and foreign investment initiatives, the realities of poverty and food insecurity cannot be ignored., saying “The true measure of economic success will not be found in statistics alone but in the ability of ordinary Nigerians to live with dignity, security, and hope”, Dr Jenfa concluded.”