National School Feeding – FG Sign MoU with NASCO Foods

At the weekend in Abuja, the Federal Government of Nigeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NASCO Foods Limited, Jos, Plateau State.

The significance of the signed MoU was for the commercial production of high nutrient density biscuits to feed about 30 million school children below the age of 13.

Notable guest present at the event were, The Minister of Science and Technology, Mr. Ogbonnaya Onu; The General Manager of NASCO Foods, Mr. Ibrahim Sani and The Director General, FIIRO, Mrs Gloria Elemo.

Mr. Ogbonnaya disclosed that, the MoU was imminent to bring the government desires on healthy child living into actualization.

In his words, he said “This is surely the best way to go as the nation is giving serious attention to utilization of indigenous technologies as a potent strategy to diversify the economy to provide alternative revenue sources.

“In this process, Jobs will be created, wealth will be generated and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will be enhanced through the productive sector of the economy.” He added.

The minister also made it known that the high nutrient density biscuits were one of the products of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, FIIRO, Lagos which would meet at least one-third recommended dietary allowance of pupils.

Mr. Ibrahim in a remark gave kudos to the ministry for partnering with NASCO biscuits. He also revealed that the company has capacity and experience to produce biscuit products to feed estimated 25 million children in public primary schools across the country.

According to the Mrs Gloria Elemo She said “The signing of MoU signifies the technical commencement of strategic partnership with NASCO Foods to fully commmercialise the biscuits production technology.

“The biscuit is developed from indigenous crops which reflect the nation’s best in terms of foods security, safety and standard which will be commercially produced with this arrangement.” The Director General added.