UN, FAO, ECOWAS, Nigerian Stakeholders Strengthen Alliance to Tackle Food Insecurity in West Africa

In a strategic move to address the growing threat of food insecurity across Nigeria and the West African subregion, key stakeholders convened at the United Nations House for a high-level meeting focused on strengthening collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

The meeting brought together senior representatives from the FAO, ECOWAS, and Nigerian institutions to discuss a coordinated response to the worsening food crisis. The discussions highlighted the devastating impact of insecurity, banditry, and violent extremism on agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods, particularly in northern Nigeria and other parts of the region.

The FAO was represented by Mr. Koffy Dominique Kouacou, the Acting Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization to Nigeria and ECOWAS. The Nigerian delegation was led by Hon. Chief Jim Okolo Chimezie, the Nigerian Coordinator of Nouvelle Perspective International, a United Nations-affiliated organization charged with the responsibility of conducting international election observation missions across the globe.

Participants at the meeting acknowledged the urgency of the situation, citing the increasing levels of hunger, displacement, and disruption of food systems due to ongoing conflicts. They agreed that food insecurity has now become a significant development and security concern requiring immediate and sustained attention.

Mr. Kouacou emphasized the need for a collaborative, multisectoral approach that integrates food assistance with peacebuilding and resilience strategies. He reiterated the FAO’s commitment to working closely with national governments and regional bodies to implement practical solutions in the most affected communities.

Chief Jim Okolo described the engagement as highly productive and timely, noting that the meeting resulted in the formulation of a strategic framework that would guide long-term collaboration among stakeholders.

“This is more than a meeting—it is a commitment to act,” Chief Okolo stated. “Food insecurity is now a humanitarian and security emergency. We must combine technical expertise, political will, and grassroots engagement to restore confidence, support farming communities, and strengthen regional stability.”

The stakeholders agreed to establish a joint technical working group to refine the proposed collaboration framework, identify priority areas for intervention, and mobilize resources for effective implementation. The framework will focus on early warning systems, regional coordination, and community-based recovery programs designed to help affected populations resume agricultural activities safely and sustainably.

The meeting marks a significant step toward a unified regional response to food insecurity and demonstrates the shared commitment of the United Nations, ECOWAS, and Nigerian institutions to address the root causes of hunger and displacement through inclusive and practical action.