(Ecofin Agency) - The Federal Government of Nigeria has revealed plans to support the United Nations’ World Food Programme (UN –WFP) in creating a food centre in the country.

This was declared by Zainab Ahmed (photo), the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, while responding to the presentation made by the Executive Director of UN-WFP, Ertharin Cousin, on the organization’s plans and activities in Nigeria. The Minister said the initiative was a good opportunity for businesses in Nigeria, as it would provide jobs and boost revenues for farmers.

According to the Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, the country is working desperately to provide grains for Nigerians as well as other parts of Africa that rely on it for grains. He said the government is also collaborating with research institutions to provide solutions to curtail the challenges of toxicity and poor quality of products in the market, Premium Times reports.

During her presentation, the Executive Director of UN-WFP, Ertharin Cousin, disclosed that the food hub will be established in Lagos and will serve helpless people and communities in conflict- affected areas in Nigeria and other African nations. She however urged the government support the organization in increasing food production in the country and also for export to other parts of Africa, and improve the standard of food supplements.

Anita Fatunji