The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda, has launched an Agricultural Empowerment and Food Security project for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Konduga and Ngala local government areas (LGAs), of Borno state, as part of efforts to foster sustainable development and reduce reliance on aid.
Speaking at the launch, Yilwatda emphasized the importance of moving beyond food aid towards self-sufficiency, while expressing confidence in the ongoing progress of the World Food Programme’s (WFP) agricultural intervention in the state.
The initiative, a collaborative venture between the WFP, the Borno State Government, and the Federal Government, is designed to support displaced persons, returnees, and host communities through year-round agricultural activities.
Yilwatda stressed that while food distribution can address immediate needs, it is not a sustainable long-term solution.
“The goal is to help IDPs grow their own food, not just to feed themselves but also to generate income. This partnership is key to that vision, and we are committed to scaling up these efforts in the future,” he said.
In a notable shift from reliance on external food aid, the minister highlighted how residents of Konduga and Ngala were now not only able to meet their own food needs but were also producing surplus crops for sale.
He added that this development marks an improvement in local livelihoods.
“The Federal Government’s renewed focus on food security and economic empowerment is already yielding results.”
A crucial aspect of the program’s success, he noted, has been the production of locally made food supplements aimed at tackling malnutrition.
Previously, the government had been spending large amounts on imported supplements for children.
“Today, we are proud to see that we now produce these essential supplements locally in Konduga,” he shared.
David Stevenson, the WFP country director, also expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the scheme, particularly its impact on rural malnutrition.
He affirmed WFP’s commitment to supporting both the state and federal governments to extend the project’s reach, ensuring that it continues to benefit conflict-affected communities.”
The State’s Agriculture Commissioner, Bawu Bamusami, emphasized that the program is enabling displaced persons to farm for both food and income, allowing them to break free from the cycle of dependence on external aid.
On behalf of the program’s beneficiaries, Muhammad Kabir and Bintu Maigari expressed their gratitude for the year-round farming opportunities, thanking the federal, state, and international partners for their support.
