A shipment of 25,000 tons of wheat has reached Nigeria from Ukraine, a crucial contribution aimed at providing emergency food assistance to 1.3 million crisis-affected individuals in the northeast region.
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) facilitated the donation, a significant part of Ukraine’s humanitarian initiative, “Grain from Ukraine,” spearheaded by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
This arrival is particularly timely as staple food prices surge, making basic meals unaffordable for numerous vulnerable families nationwide.
The initiative garnered support from Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Luxembourg, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, which collectively funded the transportation and distribution of the wheat.
Expressing gratitude for the gesture, David Stevenson, WFP Representative and Country Director in Nigeria, emphasized the collaborative effort’s role in alleviating suffering and maintaining human dignity amid conflict and food price escalations.
The wheat consignment, combined with cash and other commodities, will sustain crisis-affected populations for a two-month period, addressing their immediate food and nutrition needs.
Deadly conflicts and persistent violence in northeast Nigeria have displaced millions, disrupting agriculture and livelihoods, and driving food prices beyond reach. Market prices for essential staples have soared, exacerbating food insecurity across the country.
Amidst these challenges, WFP remains committed to building resilient, inclusive food systems and supporting long-term food security and resilience.
Stevenson stressed the need for collective action to restore northeast Nigeria’s agricultural potential and ensure stable markets, peace, and stability. Urgent funding of US$154 million is required for WFP’s food and nutrition assistance in the northeast and northwest regions over the next six months (March-August 2024).
