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ABUJA, Nigeria - The Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria (AAN), Andrew Mamedu, has stated that Nigeria is facing significant challenges in its food system, which is increasingly under pressure.
Speaking at a recent two-day workshop titled ‘Media Workshop: Strengthening the Role of the Media in Promoting Investments in Inclusive and Sustainable Food Systems’ in Abuja, he noted that the stresses include climate change, economic shocks, conflicts, and rising inequality, but emphasized that these challenges also present valuable opportunities.
Mamedu, represented by the Deputy Country Director of AAN, Suwaiba Dankabo, explained that the workshop, funded by GIZ, aims to provide agricultural journalists with essential insights and the knowledge needed to report effectively on agriculture, climate change, and inclusive practices.
He highlighted the potential to develop a fairer, more inclusive, and resilient agricultural system if there is bold, collaborative, and intentional action.
Additionally, a Food Systems Specialist at ActionAid Nigeria, Azubike Nwokoye, during his presentation titled “Understanding Inclusive Food System: What Makes Food System Inclusive? Power Dynamics in Food Production, Distribution and Consumption,” urged journalists to make sure that agricultural policies are equitable and properly enforced.
Furthermore, Ebere Agozie, in her presentation on ‘Gender & Food Systems: Women’s Roles and Barriers, Gender Sensitive Reporting’ encouraged journalists to prioritize gender issues, particularly those affecting women, in their reporting on agriculture and climate change.
Mojeed Alabi, an editor, in his discussion on ‘Bridging Collaboration Barriers Between Agricultural Researchers and Journalists For Food Sustainability,’ stressed that sensational headlines should not be the primary focus; instead, the emphasis should be on policies, accountability, inclusivity, and societal problem-solving initiatives.
