In a significant move towards securing a brighter, healthier, and more inclusive future for Nigerian children, the Federal Government has convened a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss the relaunch and scaling of the Renewed-Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (RH-NHGSFP).
The meeting, held at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday, 23rd April, was led by the Honourable Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu.
Dr. Sununu emphasized the need for substantial funding, estimating that approximately 900 billion to 1 trillion Naira will be required annually to provide nutritious meals for primary school pupils in grades 1 to 3, with a target of three meals per week. He highlighted the importance of collaboration.
He, however, said that beyond federal government appropriations, additional funding sources are crucial for the successful implementation of the programme.
Responding to the funding requirements, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme, Associate Professor Badamasi Lawal, PhD, outlined potential funding sources.
These included presidential support, donations and grants from international donors and key stakeholders, as well as 5% of recovered repatriation funds.
Dr. Badamasi stated, “As stakeholders, your technical expertise, strategic insights, and financial support are invaluable.
He noted that through this engagement, we aim to identify collaborative pathways that will strengthen and sustain the programme’s goals in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly in eradicating hunger, ensuring quality education, and alleviating poverty.”
He explained that the RH-NHGSFP is more than just an initiative; it embodies the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. This agenda seeks to address critical national challenges through inclusive, people-centered solutions.
“Through this programme, we will tackle malnutrition, improve school attendance, empower smallholder farmers, and stimulate local economies—one nutritious meal at a time,” he said.
Dr. Badamasi also highlighted that the enhanced model of the programme promises improved efficiency, transparency, inclusiveness, and measurable impact.
“We hope that it will not only serve as a national success story but also as a model for other countries seeking sustainable school feeding systems,” he added.
The meeting concluded with a presentation by the National Programme Manager, Dr. Princess Aderemi Adebowale, who introduced the Enhanced Platform of the NHGSFP, marking the beginning of a renewed and invigorated journey towards an improved programme.
