NESG Urges FG to Follow Brazil and India in Combating Hunger

Nigeria Urged to Adopt Strategies from Brazil and India to Combat Hunger

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has called on the Federal Government to take inspiration from countries like Brazil and India in its fight against hunger and food insecurity. By studying and emulating the successful strategies implemented by these nations, Nigeria can develop more effective policies to ensure food availability for its population.

Learnt Lessons from Brazil

Brazil has made significant strides in reducing hunger over the past decades, largely due to its comprehensive approach that combines social welfare programs, agricultural support, and education. The “Fome Zero” (Zero Hunger) initiative, launched in 2003, has played a pivotal role in addressing hunger through direct food assistance, nutrition education, and stimulating local food production. By investing in small-scale farmers and integrating them into the broader economy, Brazil has been able to enhance food security and lift many out of poverty.

India’s Integrated Approach

India, on the other hand, has focused on a multi-pronged strategy that involves enhancing agricultural productivity, improving supply chains, and implementing targeted food distribution systems. The country’s National Food Security Act aims to provide subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of its population. Additionally, India has made significant investments in agricultural research and technology, which have resulted in improved crop yields and bolstered food security.

Potential Benefits for Nigeria

By adopting similar measures, Nigeria can address its own challenges related to hunger and malnutrition. The NESG suggests that the Nigerian government should prioritize increasing investment in agriculture, implementing efficient food distribution systems, and strengthening social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable populations. Moreover, enhancing agricultural technology and infrastructure could lead to sustainable improvements in food production and availability.

Conclusion

The success stories of Brazil and India provide valuable insights that can be tailored to Nigeria’s unique socio-economic context. By learning from these examples, Nigeria can make significant headway in eradicating hunger and ensuring food security for its citizens.