The Federal Government has launched the Nigeria Postharvest Systems Transformation Programme (NiPHaST) to cut annual post-harvest losses worth N3.5 trillion.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, announced the initiative during the Nigeria Legacy Programme at the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar, Senegal. The forum was held in partnership with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).
According to the ministry’s Head of Information, Ikemefuna Ezeaja, NiPHaST seeks to build a resilient post-harvest system. It aims to reduce food waste, increase farmer income, and strengthen national food security.
Key Focus Areas
Kyari explained that the programme will focus on:
Household storage solutions
Community warehouses and cold rooms
National grain silos operated through public–private partnerships
It will also drive investments in processing, packaging, and preservation. Furthermore, climate-smart facilities such as metal silos and cold storage units will be prioritised.
Expected Benefits
The minister stressed that NiPHaST will stabilise food prices and improve the availability of staple crops. It will also reduce imports, boost exports, and create jobs. In addition, the programme is designed to enhance nutrition and support farmer livelihoods.
Kyari added that strong international collaboration remains vital. With this support, Nigeria can revive agribusiness confidence and emerge as a leading food supplier in West Africa.
Dignitaries Present
Several leaders attended the unveiling. They included Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar A. Namadi; Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness, Dr. Kingsley Uzoma; Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Mohammed Abu Ibrahim; and President of the Nigeria Agribusiness Group, Arc. Kabir Ibrahim.
