The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology, NIFST, has called on the Federal Government to deepen its collaboration with the institute to enhance national food production through modern scientific and technological innovations.
Dr Bola Osinowo, President of NIFST, made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja during the investiture of Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, as a trustee of the institute.
According to Osinowo, rapid advancements in food processing technologies are revolutionizing the global food sector, and Nigeria must harness these developments to improve food efficiency, quality, and sustainability.
“Rising food prices, climate change, and other pressing issues are areas where NIFST is well-positioned to offer practical solutions that will positively impact food security and livelihoods,” he said.
He emphasized that the ongoing global food crisis—marked by scarcity, hunger, and starvation—is hitting developing countries the hardest, particularly those dependent on food imports.
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Nigeria, he warned, is at a critical point regarding food security, and the institute’s contributions must not be overlooked in any national strategy addressing this issue.
He explained that food science and technology hold the key to increasing food production, promoting sustainable farming, and improving food preservation techniques.
Osinowo expressed confidence that Bishop Kukah’s appointment would strengthen the institute’s mission. He described Kukah as someone whose experience and passion would be instrumental in promoting food science initiatives in Nigeria.
In his response, Bishop Kukah pledged to use his new position to support the institute’s efforts and contribute meaningfully to the drive for food security across the country.
NIFST is a registered, non-profit body representing food professionals across academia, industry, government, and research institutions in Nigeria.
NAN
