FG Pushes Nationwide Expansion of Biofortified Crops to Tackle Malnutrition

By Ladan Nasidi

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving food and nutrition security by expanding the adoption of biofortified crops nationwide.

Speaking at a national biofortification workshop in Kano on Saturday, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, said food security must go beyond availability to ensuring that Nigerians have access to nutritious, safe, affordable and accessible meals.

He stressed that malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies remain serious public health and economic challenges in the country, noting that biofortification offers a cost-effective and sustainable solution, especially for women, children and other vulnerable groups.

The workshop reviewed the mandate and operational framework of the National Biofortification Steering Committee and aligned its goals with national food and nutrition policies.

Nigeria currently boasts the world’s largest portfolio of biofortified crops, 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 and supported by private sector investments in seed multiplication, processing and market development.

Stakeholders at the event called for sustained funding for research, extension services and public awareness to accelerate nationwide adoption of biofortified crops and strengthen the country’s fight against malnutrition.