The Nigerian government has stressed on the need for a strengthened partnership with the United Nations to advance sustainable agricultural development and enhance food security.
This appeal was made during the visit of Dr. Amina Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, to Abuja, where she engaged with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, welcomed Dr. Mohammed and acknowledged the significant role the UN has played in Nigeria's development.
He expressed enthusiasm for the discussions aimed at reinforcing the collaboration between Nigeria and the UN, particularly in relation to President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and the ministry's operational strategies for the next four years.
He stated, "With our large population and growing demand for food security, Nigeria’s partnership with the United Nations is critical to meet the attendant huge consumption demand in the immediate and long-term plan of action."
The minister highlighted the alignment of the ministry’s objectives with President Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, which prioritizes food security, economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation.
He also acknowledged the historical cooperation between Nigeria and various UN agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), noting Nigeria's financial contributions to these organizations.
Kyari called for additional support for initiatives aimed at boosting food production and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
He specifically mentioned the Value Chain Development Programme and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project in the Niger Delta, which focus on enhancing income and job creation through agribusiness.
In her remarks, Dr. Amina Mohammed acknowledged the complex challenges facing Nigeria such as domestic issues and global disruptions that have intensified the food security crisis and noted that changes will require time and effort, and it will not happen overnight.
