The Federal Government has moved forward with plans for a nationwide food support initiative by activating a steering committee to oversee its rollout across Nigeria.
The development was announced on April 12, 2026, through an official statement from the Federal Ministry of Health. The committee held its inaugural meeting in Abuja as part of efforts to coordinate the National Community Food Bank Programme.
At the meeting, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Ali Pate urged members to prioritise execution, emphasising that the programme must deliver tangible benefits for vulnerable Nigerians.
“This Committee must ensure that implementation is not only coordinated, but effective. This is not about meetings, but about results that improve the lives of Nigerians,” he said.
The initiative, spearheaded by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, aims to address malnutrition and strengthen food and nutrition support systems at the community level across the country’s 774 local government areas.
The ministry explained that the committee includes representatives from key government institutions, including ministries responsible for humanitarian affairs, agriculture, women’s affairs, and health, as well as relevant agencies.
According to the statement, the committee is expected to provide oversight, ensure coordination among stakeholders, and track progress as the programme is implemented nationwide.
The statement added that the initiative will focus on improving nutrition outcomes and reducing vulnerability, particularly among underserved communities.
The Federal Government noted that the programme is scheduled for official launch in Borno later in April, marking a significant step in its efforts to combat food insecurity and malnutrition in Nigeria.
