Nigeria Release NASS 2023 Report on Food Security

News in brief;

-FG unveils NASS 2023 report to provide credible data for food-security decisions and targeted agricultural interventions.

-Collaboration includes FAO, NBS, and the World Bank to ensure quality, transparency, and nationwide coverage of crop, livestock, fisheries, and forestry data.

The Federal Government has officially released the National Agricultural Sample Survey (NASS) 2023 report to strengthen policy formulation and ensure that Nigeria’s food security efforts are grounded in reliable evidence.

Speaking at the dissemination event in Abuja, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, said the findings will directly inform the government’s strategy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He emphasised that 'a nation that measures well governs well,' noting that food-system resilience is heavily dependent on accurate and timely data.

Comprehensive National Coverage Across 36 States

The NASS 2023 was produced through a partnership involving the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), FAO, and the World Bank. The report offers detailed insights into crop production, livestock, fisheries, and forestry in all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and 767 local government areas.

Officials noted that the dataset will guide planning, investments and reforms across Nigeria’s agricultural value chains.

Data to Strengthen Decision-Making and Accountability

Kyari stated that the report will serve as a practical decision-making tool, helping the government target critical gaps and ensure interventions reach farmers who need them most. He added that without trusted data, sector investments risk becoming misaligned or ineffective.

“This report represents more than statistics; it is our commitment to transparency, disciplined planning and sustainable development,” the minister stated.

Development Partners Praise Milestone Achievement

FAO Country Representative, Dr Hussein Gadain, described the launch as a celebration of progress in building a resilient agricultural data system.

He noted that the report offers essential insights into farm inputs, land use, post-harvest losses, labour, farming systems and household-level socio-economic indicators.

NBS and World Bank Reaffirm Support for Food-System Transformation

The Statistician-General of Nigeria, Adeyemi Adeniran, represented by Mr David Babalola, stated that the NASS 2023 strengthens Nigeria’s capacity for timely, credible and policy-relevant agricultural statistics.

The World Bank’s Senior Economist, Asad Alam, also commended Nigeria for elevating data to a national priority that supports market stability and food security.