The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to improving cold chain infrastructure to enhance food security and reduce post-harvest losses in Nigeria.
Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, made this commitment at the 7th West African Cold Chain Summit and Exhibition (WACCSE 2025) as well as the 10th Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria exhibition, held at the Landmark Conference Centre in Lagos.
Kyari emphasized the need for innovative solutions to address challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainties, and inefficiencies in the agricultural supply chain, which continue to affect the sector.
Lagos Governor Highlights Nigeria’s Growing Market Potential
In his address, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government, pointed out that Nigeria is set to become Africa’s largest consumer market by 2050. He stated:
“This platform is not just an exhibition, but a catalyst for innovation, technology, and investment in agro-processing, food production, packaging, and plastics. Lagos remains a hub for agribusiness, food processing, and manufacturing, thanks to its strategic location, vibrant consumer market, and growing industrial base.”
Sanwo-Olu urged participants to seize the opportunity to form partnerships, drive innovation, and foster sustainable growth for Lagos, Nigeria, and the broader African continent.
German Consul General Remarks on Food Insecurity and Trade Growth
German Consul General Weert Börner, in his remarks, highlighted the alarming rise in food insecurity in Nigeria, with over 30 million people affected in 2024. However, he pointed out positive trends, particularly in agricultural trade, with Nigeria’s agricultural trade volume reaching its highest level in several years. Notably, exports, including cocoa, sesame, and cashew nuts, surpassed imports for the first time in years.
He also mentioned that experts project a 10% annual growth rate for Nigeria’s food market from 2025 to jjh
