Nigeria Targets One Billion Mango Trees in Four Years as Food Security Push Gains Momentum

The National Association of Mango Producers, Processors and Marketers of Nigeria (NAMPPMAN) has announced plans to plant one billion mango trees across the country over the next four years as part of efforts to strengthen food security.

The association’s president, Prof. Umar Kangiwa, announced the target during the commemoration of World Food Day in Abuja on Friday.

Kangiwa said the initiative had already been launched in the Federal Capital Territory, adding that mango trees could provide economic benefits for generations.

Association Appeals for Government and Public Support

Kangiwa called on the Federal Government, state governments, development partners and individuals to support the planting programme.

He encouraged Nigerians to plant mango trees in their homes and offices, while urging public authorities and development organisations to contribute to the initiative.

“The programme is going to be on within the next four years. We appeal to the Federal Government to support the initiative, we appeal to development partners to support the initiative and to individuals to plant mango trees in their houses, offices,” he said.

The programme is intended to expand mango cultivation nationwide within the four-year period.

AFAN Representative Says Food Security Requires Action

Dr Nkechi Okafor, chairperson of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), FCT Chapter, said achieving food security was possible with appropriate policies and practical measures.

Speaking on behalf of farmers, Okafor stressed the importance of food to human survival and said the 2026 World Food Day theme, “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow”, called for action to improve food production and agricultural systems.

She also highlighted the need to make agricultural mechanisation more accessible to women farmers.

Call for Farm Equipment Designed for Women

Okafor urged agricultural authorities and equipment producers to develop machinery that women could operate more easily.

She said tractors currently available through the Agricultural Seed Council could not be operated by women, calling for equipment designed to accommodate their needs.

“They should produce tractors that can be driven by women,” she said.

Okafor also appealed for deliberate innovation to ensure that women farmers were included in mechanisation efforts.

World Food Day Focuses on Hunger and Sustainable Food Systems

World Food Day is observed annually on 16 October to mark the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in 1945.

The occasion is used to raise awareness of hunger, food security and the importance of developing sustainable food systems.

The 2026 commemoration was held under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow”.