EU and Nigeria Urge Action to Combat Food Waste

On Thursday in Abuja, the European Union (EU) and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) emphasized the need for urgent coordinated action to combat food waste, which totals approximately 38 million tons annually in Nigeria, the highest in Africa. Deputy Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Zissimo Vergo, highlighted that in 2022 alone, nearly one billion tons of food were wasted globally, representing a significant loss of resources and a direct threat to the planet's health.

Food loss and waste contribute to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and significantly impact environmental degradation. Vergo outlined three priority actions for Nigeria: reducing food waste, strengthening food security, and investing in rural infrastructure.

Federal Minister of Environment, Balarab Lawal, reiterated the government's commitment to addressing food waste as part of a broader strategy for sustainable development. The initiative aims to promote responsible consumption patterns and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting livelihoods.