Stakeholders urge policy reforms to boost food production, end hunger in Nigeria

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

As Nigeria joined the global community to commemorate World Food Day 2025, stakeholders in the food and hospitality sectors have urged the government to strengthen agricultural systems and implement inclusive food policies that guarantee food security for all Nigerians.

Speaking at the “Table for All” celebration organized by Platters & Co. Restaurant in Abuja, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the restaurant, Jennifer Dinchi Zando, called for urgent policy action to tackle hunger through sustainable agricultural development and improved food systems.

“We gather today around one simple but powerful idea: ‘A table for all.’ For us to share our pain as a community—the pain of hunger,” Zando said.

“This table represents more than food. It’s about connection, compassion, and community. Every shared meal carries a story, and every story deserves to be heard.

She said this year’s World Food Day theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” challenges everyone—especially policymakers—to ensure that food is treated as a right, not a privilege.

“Food is not a privilege—it’s a right!” she declared. “But the reality remains that over thirty-three million Nigerians face food insecurity. That number is not just data—it’s our families, neighbors, and children.”

Zando urged the government to prioritize agricultural reforms, empower local farmers, and create a business environment that supports sustainable food production.

“Today, we call on the government to do the needful—create better agricultural systems and a more conducive environment for all Nigerians to live a better life,” she appealed.

Highlighting the shared responsibility of both government and businesses, Zando said stakeholders must act collectively to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 and 12—Zero Hunger and Responsible Consumption and Production.

“At Platters & Co., we believe change starts with small actions—by sharing what we have, reducing waste, and creating a culture where no one eats alone,” she said.
“We call on our colleagues in the hospitality industry to join the Zero Hunger Movement. Let’s find creative ways to pass on surplus food safely and ensure that good food never goes to waste while others go hungry.”

She also applauded Nigerian youths for their passion for positive change.

“To the youths, we see you and we thank you. Your passion is the reason this movement matters. Let’s keep speaking about this and seeking a better Nigeria for all,” she said.

Zando disclosed that Platters & Co. provided 300 meals for attendees, 150 meals for the Novare Mall community, and 100 donated packs from Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, adding that the restaurant plans to expand its outreach in future editions.

“This is just the start,” she said. “We promise next time, we’ll have the capacity to reach even more people.”

She expressed gratitude to sponsors and supporters including Guinness Nigeria Limited, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Novare Central Mall Management, AA Collections, Tots Academy, Chipsys Oven, MedPlus, Life’s Best Things, and Adhere Media.

“Let’s always remember to treat everyone first as human—without thinking of class, status, or race. Together, we can truly make the world a better place—a world with a table for all,” she concluded.

In his remarks, Roland Chidozie Osondu, Centre Manager of Novare Central Mall, reaffirmed his organization’s support for government initiatives aimed at achieving food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

“On this World Food Day, we are reminded of the critical importance of ensuring food security and nutrition for all,” Osondu said.
“Hunger remains one of the gravest challenges facing humanity, and it is incumbent upon us to take concerted action to eradicate it.”

Osondu stressed the need for stronger partnerships between government, businesses, and civil society to build resilient food systems.

“We believe that through collaborative efforts—across governments, private sectors, and civil society—we can build resilient food systems capable of sustaining present and future generations,” he said.

“As Mother Teresa once said, ‘If you cannot feed a hundred people, then feed one.’ Let us renew our commitment to these goals with resolve and dedication.”

He commended Platters & Co. and its partners for organizing the impactful event, noting that such collaborations complement national and global hunger eradication goals.

“May I use this opportunity to thank Platters & Co. Restaurant and other collaborators for making this possible,” Osondu added.

The “Table for All” event, held at Novare Central Mall in Abuja, featured a farmers’ market, food donations, and shared meals — symbolizing a united call for policies that ensure every Nigerian has a seat at the table.