The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has launched the National Community Food Bank (NCFB) Programme.
The programme is a nationwide initiative aimed at improving access to nutritious food for Nigeria’s most vulnerable households.
Muyi Aina, Executive Director of NPHCDA, made this known on Thursday in Abuja during the inauguration of the programme’s Trust Fund, which brought together business leaders, government officials, and stakeholders across sectors.
Aina said the initiative would reach families with children under six years of age, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women at risk of malnutrition.
“The programme will be implemented across all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.
“It will link primary healthcare centres (PHCs) with community food banks stocked with locally sourced grains and Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTFs).
“Eligible households will be identified through health screenings at PHCs and provided with vouchers redeemable at the food banks.
“Families will continue to receive support until children turn six or their nutritional status improves,” he said.
Aina highlighted the urgency of the initiative, noting that while Nigeria produces a significant surplus of crops, 30 to 50 per cent of harvested food is lost annually.
According to him, this is equivalent to 30 million to 40 million metric tonnes.
“This programme leverages Nigeria’s agricultural potential to ensure surplus food reaches those who need it most, improving child growth, health, and school readiness,” he said.
He added that the NCFB Programme also aims to strengthen local food systems and support Nigerian farmers.
By sourcing produce locally, he said, the initiative will ensure a steady market for farmers, improve supply chains, and enhance access to finance for smallholder producers.
He noted that community health workers, social workers, and traditional leaders will be actively involved in monitoring distribution and ensuring accountability.
“The programme is a multi-sectoral effort led by the Office of the First Lady.
“It is being implemented in collaboration with the Federal Ministries of Health, Agriculture, Women Affairs, Budget and Economic Planning, the Bank of Agriculture, private sector actors, and high-net-worth individuals,” he said.
Aina emphasized that strong governance, digitised tracking, and community engagement are critical to the programme’s success.
He added that the NCFB Programme will be rolled out in phases, beginning with six states representing each geopolitical zone in 2026, starting with Borno State in late April.
“By the end of the year, the programme aims to cover all 774 LGAs, with over 500,000 households expected to benefit.
“More than 13,000 PHCs will serve as entry points, while food banks will act as distribution hubs.
“The programme is not just about relief; it is a sustainable intervention that taps into Nigeria’s agricultural strengths, restores dignity, and builds healthier, more prosperous families across the country.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that stakeholders at the event emphasized that, beyond addressing immediate hunger, the programme will contribute to improved child growth.
They added that it will also enhance educational outcomes, workforce productivity, and overall national development.
The launch drew participation from government officials, development partners, traditional rulers, private sector representatives, and civil society organizations, all of whom pledged support for the initiative.
Observers said the programme marks a significant step towards tackling Nigeria’s food insecurity crisis through a coordinated, multi-sectoral, and sustainable approach.
