Experts Push for Indigenous Foods to Boost Nigeria's Food Security

At the World Food Day 2026 Food Policy Dialogue and African Traditional Food Fair, held on October 16 at the FCT Exhibition Pavilion in Abuja, food policy experts called for increased investment in indigenous foods to address malnutrition and reduce Nigeria's food import dependence. Keynote speaker Dr Olumide Ojo advocated for the consumption of indigenous foods such as millet, sorghum, fonio, cowpeas, and traditional vegetables to improve dietary diversity.

He emphasized that these foods should meet modern nutritional standards while being affordable and accessible. Dr Ojo also highlighted the role of indigenous crops in helping farmers adapt to climate change and called for better financing and market access for these foods.

Dr Michael Terungwa David, Executive Director of GIFSEP, noted that Nigeria spent ₦7.65 trillion on food imports in 2025 and urged for stronger local food systems and increased funding for smallholder farmers to enhance food security and preserve cultural heritage.