In recent years, I’ve grown increasingly passionate about tackling food insecurity and malnutrition, especially in Nigeria. As someone who believes in the power of policy to drive change, I’ve seen how strategic government interventions can transform food systems. Today, I want to explore how policy changes can improve access to nutritious foods in Nigeria.

Access to nutritious food is a global challenge, and Nigeria is no exception. According to the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, over 31.8 million Nigerians face acute food insecurity, with malnutrition disproportionately affecting women and children.

The 2023 Global Hunger Index (GHI) ranks Nigeria 109th out of 125 countries, with a score of 28.3, indicating a serious level of hunger. Additionally, three UN agencies have called for urgent lifesaving support, as record inflation, climate shocks, and ongoing conflicts are expected to push the number of food-insecure Nigerians to 33 million by 2025. Chi Lael, WFP Spokesperson for Nigeria, starkly notes, “Never before have there been so many people in Nigeria without food.” These figures highlight the urgent need for policy interventions to bridge the gap between food availability and accessibility.

The Role of Policy in Shaping Food Systems

Policy changes can revolutionize food systems, making nutritious foods more accessible and affordable. Here are a few ways Nigeria can implement such measures:

1. Strengthening agricultural production and supply chains: Investing in agricultural infrastructure, technology, and policies that support smallholder farmers can boost local food production, reduce reliance on imports, and stabilize prices. This would ensure a steady supply of nutritious foods.
   
2. Implementing social protection programs: Social safety nets like cash transfers and food vouchers can alleviate food insecurity for vulnerable populations. These programs increase food availability and affordability, directly improving dietary quality for those in need.
   
3. Promoting nutrition education and awareness: Educational campaigns that emphasize balanced diets can encourage healthier food choices. Integrating nutrition education into school curricula and community programs can foster health consciousness from a young age.
   
4. Regulating food exports to prioritize domestic needs: Policies that regulate the export of essential staples can address domestic shortages. For example, in December 2024, Nigeria’s Senate approved a bill to criminalize the export of large quantities of unprocessed corn, aiming to combat hunger amid the country’s severe cost-of-living crisis.

These policy measures, if implemented effectively, can create a more equitable food system. However, achieving this requires collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society. Policymakers must prioritize nutrition in their agendas and allocate resources to programs that promote food security. Businesses can contribute by innovating affordable, nutrient-rich products or fortifying foods. Individuals, too, play a role by advocating for these changes and making sustainable food choices.

By addressing these challenges through thoughtful policy changes, we can build a healthier, more equitable future where everyone has access to the nutritious foods they need to thrive.