• Says climate change, inadequate agriculture support exacerbate crisis

The Executive Director, Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), Dr David Michael, has appealed to government to implement the right to food act as enshrined in international treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 1999 constitution as amended under the Right to Food Act as 2023.

He stressed that Nigeria’s future depends on the well-being of its people, adding that ensuring the right to food is not only a moral obligation, but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s prosperity and stability.

Michael, who made the appeal in an interview with journalists, explained that by implementing the Right to Food Act to the fullest, the present administration can lead a transformative agenda that uplifts millions, fosters resilience, and builds a sustainable and equitable future.

“Food is a basic necessity for human survival and a cornerstone for national development. Despite Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, millions of Nigerians face hunger and malnutrition.

According to recent statistics, over 25 million Nigerians are food insecure, and malnutrition rates among children are alarmingly high.

“Factors such as poverty, climate change, conflict, and inadequate agricultural support systems exacerbate this crisis,” he said.

According to him, the Right to Food Act 2023 has provided the necessary legislation that is essential for ensuring that every citizen has access to adequate, nutritious, and affordable food as a fundamental human right.

Michael affirmed that the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria identifies food provision as one of the government’s economic objectives. However, he observed that the specifics of what the government must do and what citizens can expect from this provision are not clearly outlined.

This, according to him, highlighted the need for a more comprehensive clause in the Constitution. He said: “To address this, the Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, was signed into law on March 3, 2023, by former President MuhammaduBuhari. This legislation, referred to as the “Right to Food Act,” significantly amends the food provision clause to enhance food security for the nation and its people, making it a priority in government policies.

According to the Right to Food Act, 16A (1), the State shall direct its policy towards ensuring that — (a) strategies that guarantee food security of the nation regarding availability, accessibility, and affordability of food to the citizens are initiated, undertaken, and implemented.”
Michael advised leaders to reduce hunger and poverty by addressing structural barriers to food access, adding that the Act can help reduce poverty and hunger, by aligning with global commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2: Zero Hunger).

For him, the right to food act has numerous benefits ranging from guaranteeing access to food, and ensuring that all Nigerians have consistent access to adequate and nutritious food. Others, he said, include improving affordability and availability for vulnerable populations, promoting agricultural development through the prioritisation of agricultural investment, supporting smallholder farmers, sustainable food systems, boosting the economy and ensuring food security.

The Act, if well implemented, he said, can help combat malnutrition, reduce healthcare costs, and improve the overall well-being of citizens.
“The law strengthens accountability, providing the opportunity for citizens to hold the government and stakeholders accountable for addressing food insecurity. This includes creating transparent mechanisms to monitor food policies and programmes,” the director said.