By Mustapha Salisu
The Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to tackling the pressing challenges of food security and malnutrition in Nigeria.
This was conveyed by Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who delivered a speech on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the 48th Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST).
The event, held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, focused on “Food Science and Technology for Sustainable Food and Nutrition Security in Nigeria.”
The Deputy Governor Governor highlighted the importance of the gathering in tackling rising food prices and socio-economic challenges.
He noted the government’s proactive efforts to enhance food security through policies supporting sustainable agriculture, technological innovation, and improved value chains.
In response to the economic impact of fuel subsidy removal, Kano is making agricultural inputs more accessible to farmers and promoting large-scale mechanization.
Gwarzo emphasized that the conference’s policy recommendations would shape the future of food science in Nigeria and help secure a prosperous future.
Also speaking, the Emir of Kano, Sir Muhammadu Sunusi, expressed concern over Nigeria’s reliance on imported nutritious food, particularly from South Africa. “What ingredients are we lacking in Northern Nigeria for farming?” he questioned, highlighting the need to harness local agricultural resources.
He urged the Nutrition Society to keep the focus of their research on improving the lives of malnourished children across the country.
The Emir also reminded the government that distributing rice as palliatives is not a comprehensive solution to the nation’s challenges. Instead, he called for a deeper evaluation of shortcomings in nutrition science and efforts to develop the sector.