The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced the donation of 25,000 tons of wheat from the Ukrainian Government of Ukraine that will help provide emergency food assistance to 1.3 million crisis-affected people in northeast Nigeria.
This great contribution happened at a time when prices of staple food in Nigeria have increased, pushing basic meals beyond the reach of millions of vulnerable families across the country.
The shipment was facilitated by a combined effort from Canada, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Finland, France, Luxembourg, Norway, the Republic of Korea and Sweden, which helped cover the costs of shipping the wheat from Ukraine to Nigeria and its distribution to the families that urgently need it.
While speaking about the development, David Stevenson, WFP Representative and Country Director in Nigeria said: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Government of Ukraine, partners, and donors for their unwavering support through the Grain from Ukraine Initiative.
“This collaborative effort plays a crucial role in alleviating suffering and maintaining human dignity in areas facing conflict and food price increase”.
As part of the ongoing humanitarian operations of WFP, the wheat donation will be combined with cash and other commodities to meet the basic food and nutrition needs of crisis-affected women, men and children for sixty days.
While speaking at WFP Office, Cynthia Rowe, British High Commission Development Director said: “This is a really tough time for many people across the world, including in Nigeria.
“It is important that we help the most vulnerable populations. The UK is proud to be part of the global community supporting WFP to distribute lifesaving grain across Nigeria, reaching over 600,000 people.
“This contribution will go some way to addressing rising food insecurity, driven by conflict and regional instability. We continue to back measures that help reduce its impact in Nigeria, support livelihoods and promote peace.”
