Informal actors in the Nigerian food system : A reflection on their importance, the challenges and a way forward

Abstract

In Nigeria, informal actors predominate the activities that bring food from farms to the forks of more than 200 million Nigerians. The importance of informal actors on food system outcomes is very significant and cannot be underestimated. In this paper, we outline and discuss the role of informal actors, focusing on production, processing, distribution and trade, preparation and consumption, and waste management. After that, we will discuss some important challenges and implications for policy and practice.