First Lady demands end to food waste as global crisis looms

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA –THE First Lady Senator Oluremi Tnubu has issued a forceful message to Nigerians, demanding an immediate end to the culture of food waste as the country marks World Cleanup Day 2026 under the global theme “From Clean Plates to Clean Cities.”

In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, the First Lady warned that irresponsible consumption habits are no longer tenable in the face of worsening climate change, global conflicts, and supply chain disruptions that threaten food security worldwide.

She said: “This year’s focus on food waste is particularly important at a time when climate change, conflicts, and other global challenges continue to disrupt food production and supply,” underscoring the urgency of the moment.

She stressed that environmental cleanliness must begin at the household level, stating: “Keeping our environment clean begins with reducing the waste we generate.”

The First Lady called on Nigerians to become more conscious and deliberate in how they “purchase, prepare, consume, and preserve food,” framing responsible consumption as a civic duty rather than a mere suggestion.

“I encourage households, businesses, and communities to reduce food waste, dispose of refuse properly, and adopt more sustainable practices that protect our environment.”

Her statement positioned waste reduction as central to national development, noting that cleaner cities cannot be achieved without addressing the root causes of pollution and inefficiency in resource use.

“Through our collective efforts, we can build cleaner, healthier communities for present and future generations,” she added, emphasizing intergenerational responsibility.