In a significant move to achieve food self-sufficiency, the Federal and State Governments have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensuring food security for all citizens.

This pledge was the central focus of the 47th National Council on Agriculture and Food Security (NCAFS), held in Kaduna. The five-day meeting, themed “Food Sovereignty and Food Security in an Era of Renewed Hope,” brought together agriculture commissioners, development partners, and private sector experts to review policies and develop new strategies for agricultural transformation.

A Collective Effort for National Growth

In his address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, described the council as the “engine room” for shaping the future of Nigerian agriculture.

“This is a family gathering of minds and hearts committed to ensuring that agriculture continues to drive inclusive growth, stability and hope across the nation,” Dr. Ogunbiyi stated. He urged delegates to approach deliberations with optimism, emphasizing that every decision would “impact millions of lives.”

The Permanent Secretary highlighted that the meeting would review memoranda from various stakeholders to produce inclusive and evidence-based resolutions. He also acknowledged the support of key development partners, including the FAO, World Bank, and AfDB, in helping Nigeria achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of ‘Zero Hunger’.

Kaduna Hosts a National Dialogue

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Agriculture, Murtala Mohammed Dabo, expressed pride in hosting the crucial national dialogue. He highlighted the state’s rich agricultural heritage and its alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places agriculture at the centre of economic development.

“Our story is one of resilience and productivity,” Dabo said, underscoring the state’s commitment to farmers’ empowerment and agribusiness.

Focus Areas for a Food-Secure Future

Deliberations at the council are expected to focus on critical areas for revitalizing the sector, including:

• Agricultural Financing
• Mechanisation
• Extension Reforms
• Value Chain Development
• Climate Resilience

The outcomes from the technical session will form the basis for formal resolutions to be adopted during the ministerial session later this week, setting a new policy direction for Nigeria’s agricultural sector.