A coalition of stakeholders in Nigeria’s food sector has called for urgent measures to curb food waste and promote sustainable consumption as part of efforts to reduce hunger and strengthen food security in the country.
They made the call at the “Table for All” event held on Thursday in Abuja to commemorate the 2025 World Food Day with the theme: “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Platters and Co Restaurant, Ms. Jennifer Dinchi-Zando, noted that over 33 million Nigerians face persistent food insecurity, stressing the need for collective action to end hunger and reduce waste.
“Food is not a privilege; it is a right,” she said. “We must work together to build systems that are fair, sustainable, and inclusive. The government should create better agricultural systems and a more conducive environment for Nigerians to live better lives.”
Dinchi-Zando commended local businesses and partners for their efforts in ensuring that “no one eats alone” and urged young people to actively participate in building a sustainable food system.
“Let us ensure that good food never goes to waste while others go hungry. Together, we can share ideas on how leftovers from our businesses and homes can be safely distributed to those in need,” she added.
Centre Manager of Novare Central Mall, Mr. Roland Chidozie-Osondu, underscored the importance of food security and proper nutrition for all Nigerians.
“Hunger remains one of the gravest challenges facing humanity, and it is incumbent upon us to take concerted action to eradicate it,” he said.
A pharmacist with Medplus Pharmaceutical Company, Mr. Abubakar Abdulhamid, highlighted the connection between nutrition and health, urging citizens to consume nutrient-rich foods.
“Your food should be your medicine. The better you eat, the healthier you are,” he said.
One of the participants, Ms. Serah Emmanuel, said the event served as a reminder of the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing food insecurity and improving nutrition nationwide.
“This event has shown that everyone has a role to play in ensuring access to nutritious food,” she said.
Notable attendees included representatives of Guinness Nigeria, Flour Mills of Nigeria, and several local food producers, who pledged to support responsible consumption and production in line with Sustainable Development Goal 12.
The event also featured a farmers’ market where participants purchased fresh fruits and vegetables, while 150 meals were distributed to members of the surrounding community. Other activities included free health checks, counselling sessions, and the distribution of food items.
