Food Security in Nigeria: Experts worry over 40% post-harvest losses

Experts have raised alarm over the alarming rate of post-harvest losses in Nigeria, which is threatening the country's food security.

According to reports, Nigeria loses an estimated 40% of its harvested produce due to poor handling, storage, and preservation techniques. This translates to billions of naira in economic losses, and has severe implications for the country's food security.

The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) estimates that the country loses over N3.5 trillion annually to post-harvest losses. This is a significant blow to the country's agricultural sector, which is a major contributor to the national economy.

Experts blame the high rate of post-harvest losses on a combination of factors, including inadequate storage facilities, poor handling and transportation techniques, and lack of processing and preservation technologies.

"The high rate of post-harvest losses in Nigeria is a major concern for food security," said Dr. Folake Henshaw, a food scientist and expert in post-harvest management. "If we can reduce post-harvest losses, we can increase food availability, reduce poverty, and improve the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities."

To address the challenge, experts are calling for increased investment in post-harvest management infrastructure, including storage facilities, transportation networks, and processing and preservation technologies.

The federal government has also been urged to provide training and support to farmers on post-harvest management and handling techniques, as well as to promote the adoption of modern processing and preservation technologies.

By addressing the challenge of post-harvest losses, Nigeria can improve its food security, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable agricultural development.

https://guardian.ng/news/food-security-experts-worry-over-40-post-harvest-losses/