The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) has urged the Federal Government to deepen its partnership with the institute to confront the nation’s growing food insecurity crisis through the adoption of modern technologies and scientific innovations.
Speaking during the investiture ceremony of Bishop Matthew Kukah as a trustee of the institute in Abuja, NIFST President, Dr. Bola Osinowo, underscored the institute’s commitment to deploying advanced food processing technologies that enhance efficiency, ensure sustainability, and improve food quality across Nigeria.
“Rising food prices, climate change, and global food shortages are challenges we are equipped to confront. Nigeria stands at a crossroads, and NIFST can play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s food security landscape,” Osinowo stated.
He emphasized that food science offers practical solutions to some of the country’s most pressing agricultural and nutritional challenges. These include boosting food production, improving preservation methods, reducing post-harvest losses, and integrating sustainable farming techniques that reduce waste and increase yield.
Osinowo pointed out that with the right support and policy framework, Nigeria can tap into the full potential of food technology to reduce hunger and build resilience against global supply shocks and environmental disruptions.
Bishop Matthew Kukah, newly appointed trustee of NIFST, pledged his commitment to advancing the institute’s mission, particularly efforts focused on combating hunger and ensuring access to nutritious food for all Nigerians. He expressed hope that his involvement would help bridge critical gaps between food science innovation and social advocacy.
“I am honoured to serve in this capacity and I will work to ensure that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry,” Bishop Kukah affirmed.
NIFST, which comprises professionals from academia, research, government, and the food industry, has long been a driver of innovation in Nigeria’s food sector. The institute advocates for evidence-based policies and solutions that harness science and technology to improve food systems.
The call for deeper collaboration comes at a time when millions of Nigerians are facing food insecurity driven by inflation, climate variability, and disruptions in agricultural value chains. NIFST believes that with strengthened support from government and industry stakeholders, Nigeria can build a more secure, inclusive, and technologically driven food future.
By aligning its scientific capacity with government strategy, NIFST aims to ensure that Nigeria not only feeds itself but emerges as a leader in food innovation across Africa.
