Nigeria Approves 2026–2035 Food Policy to Boost Food Security and Nutrition Nationwide

Nigeria has taken a major step toward tackling malnutrition and strengthening its food systems as the National Council on Nutrition (NCN) approved the National Policy on Food and Nutrition (2026–2035).
The landmark policy introduces a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to improve nutrition outcomes, enhance food security, and drive sustainable development across the country over the next decade.

The newly approved framework is designed to align national and sub-national efforts, ensuring that all stakeholders work toward a common goal of improved nutrition and food availability.
Major components of the policy include:
A unified national strategy to combat malnutrition
Integration of food security into public health and economic planning
Stronger collaboration between government agencies and partners
Focus on vulnerable populations, including children and women
This policy is expected to serve as Nigeria’s primary roadmap for nutrition development through 2035.
Mandatory State Nutrition Councils Across Nigeria
One of the most impactful directives from the National Council on Nutrition is the requirement for all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to establish functional State Councils on Nutrition.
This move aims to:
Decentralize nutrition governance
Strengthen grassroots implementation
Improve accountability at the state level
States are also expected to roll out actionable nutrition plans within a defined timeline, ensuring faster and more measurable results.
Aligning Government Policies and Funding
To ensure effectiveness, all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must align their programs, budgets, and policies with the new food and nutrition framework.
The policy also emphasizes:
Sustainable funding through public and private partnerships
Increased investment in nutrition programs
Development of a legal framework to support long-term implementation
This alignment is crucial to eliminating duplication and maximizing impact nationwide.
Strengthening Food Security in Nigeria
Food security remains a critical issue in Nigeria, with millions facing challenges related to access, affordability, and quality of food.
The 2026–2035 policy focuses on:
Improving agricultural productivity
Enhancing food distribution systems
Promoting nutrition education and awareness
Supporting local food systems
By addressing both food availability and nutrition quality, the policy aims to deliver long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes.

The policy supports nationwide initiatives targeting all 774 local government areas, ensuring that nutrition interventions reach communities at the grassroots level.
This coordinated approach is expected to:
Reduce malnutrition rates
Improve child and maternal health
Boost economic productivity
Strengthen national development outcomes

The approval of Nigeria’s 2026–2035 National Food Policy signals a renewed commitment to solving one of the country’s most pressing challenges.
If effectively implemented, the policy could:
Transform Nigeria’s food system
Improve millions of lives
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