Experts Call for Greater Investment in Fruit Production to Boost Food Security as Nigeria Marks International Fruit Day
Nigeria on Wednesday joined more than 50 countries across the globe to commemorate the 2026 International Fruit Day, with renewed calls for increased investment in fruit production as part of efforts to strengthen food security, improve nutrition and promote sustainable agricultural development.
The annual celebration, observed every July 1, spotlighted the critical role of fruits in healthy living, disease prevention and economic growth, while providing a platform for stakeholders to advocate policies and investments that would enhance local fruit production, value addition and access to nutritious foods.
Speaking on the importance of Fruits, An Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, University of Ibadan, Dr. Idris Badiru, said Nigeria must prioritise investment in fruit cultivation, processing, storage and marketing to fully harness the country’s enormous agricultural potential.
According to him, increased investment across the fruit value chain would not only improve the availability of nutritious foods but also create employment opportunities, raise farmers’ incomes and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic diversification.
As activities marking the 2026 International Fruit Day continue, attention is gradually turning to the forthcoming World Fruit Festival in Nigeria.