Introduction Every human being needs food not just for energy giving but to sustain life in general. The challenge of food security still remains a critical area in Nigeria especially at the local government levels where food shortage, poverty and malnutrition is experienced by both rural and semi urban communities. The use of Community Based Food Security Programme (CBFSP) can tackle the challenges of food security by ensuring rural agricultural development, empowering substance farmers and increased food accessibility. The CBFSP is in alignment with Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). This study examines exactly how local governments can use their own systems, efforts or political will to create, manage and keep going for food security and economic development programs using enhanced agricultural productivity. It further provides insights into how community initiatives can help and contribute to economic stability, generation of employments and improved rural development. Methodology This study adopts qualitative research design. Data were sourced from government publications on food security and scholarly publications comprising books, journals and conference materials on food security and sustainable economic development. Results and Discussion Thematic analysis of the study discovered that Community Based Food Security Programme improves agricultural productivity at the rural communities; it allows enhanced job creation and economic empowerment among the dwellers. It furthermore increases food availability and reduction of hunger. Theses thematic discourse aligns with existing literature on the role of community based interventions in ensuring sustainable economic growth. The study confirms that empowerment of rural farmers through the availability of resources, financial supports from government drives food security and sustainable economic growth. Conclusion With the findings of the study, it was revealed that Community Based Food Security Programme contributes significantly to sustainable economic growth by ensuring an increasing output in agricultural products, additional income levels, and reduction in unemployment rate. Capacity building programmes, provision of credit facilities and improved agricultural high-tech equipments to farmers plays an impactful role in ensuring food security and economic resilience. There is need for a more integrated approach that embraces supports from government, private sectors including community engagement in achieving a stable economic prosperity and food security. Keywords: Food security, Community development, Local government, Economic growth
AJIBADE Olalekan Eyitayo, OLABODE Bolanle Motunrayo