In a powerful address delivered on behalf of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, during the closing ceremony of the three‑day MATAN Food Bank Professionals Association of Nigeria event at the National Institute of Sports Gymnasium Hall, Surulere, Hon. Haruna Gowon underscored that food security is the cornerstone of national stability, second only to health in importance.
Representing Bassa/Dekina Federal Constituency under the APC, Rep. Gowon declared that without reliable access to food, no other security measure can succeed. “Food security promotes physical and mental health, reduces health risks, supports development, prevents malnutrition, increases productivity, alleviates poverty, drives social stability, and strengthens environmental resilience,” he said, emphasising that the issue touches every facet of nation‑building.
He warned that economic distortions such as currency volatility are fuelled by hunger, noting, “When food security is available, the value of the naira against the dollar will naturally drop. A hungry man is an angry man, and food insecurity fuels insecurity across the country, making travel unsafe and feeding every negative force.”
Gowon called on all stakeholders to rally behind MATAN’s mission, pledging that the National Assembly will enact supportive legislation to remove obstacles and accelerate implementation. “We at the NASS will back you with laws that make food security a national priority. No matter the challenge, the House stands behind you, ready to translate your constituents’ calls into actionable policies,” he affirmed.
He highlighted the legislative agenda, indicating plans to introduce bills that eliminate multiple taxation, streamline food distribution logistics, and incentivise private-sector participation in community food banks and street kitchens. The lawmaker also urged state and local governments to align their programmes with MATAN’s framework for maximum impact.
Gowon concluded with a rallying cry: “Put all effort into this, and together we will tame the forces threatening our nation. Food security is not just a policy—it is the foundation for peace, prosperity, and progress.”
The event, which also featured the launch of MATAN’s Automated Food Security Initiative and digital ID system, drew legislators, traditional leaders, and development partners, all echoing the lawmaker’s call for collective action to end hunger and foster national resilience.
