Nigeria has called for an enhanced collaboration with the United Nations to advance sustainable agricultural development and ensure food security.
This appeal was made during a visit by UN Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Amina Mohammed to Abuja, where she engaged with key stakeholders in agriculture and food security.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Abubakar Kyari welcomed Dr. Mohammed, emphasizing the critical role of the UN in Nigeria’s development.
He expressed enthusiasm for discussing the ongoing partnership with the UN, which supports Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and future strategies.
Kyari highlighted the urgency of this partnership due to Nigeria’s large population and increasing food security needs. He stressed that collaboration with the UN is vital for addressing both immediate and long-term consumption demands.
The minister also noted the alignment of the ministry’s goals with President Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, focusing on food security, economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. He acknowledged Nigeria’s historical cooperation with various UN agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which have yielded significant results.
Nigeria’s commitment is further evidenced by its financial contributions to these organizations, aimed at boosting food production and supporting multilateral initiatives to enhance the resilience of the Nigerian food system.
The ministry is particularly seeking additional support for key initiatives such as the Value Chain Development Programme and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project – Niger Delta, which focus on increasing food production and improving rural livelihoods.
The Minister expressed hope that Dr. Mohammed’s visit would usher in a new phase of strengthened cooperation and innovative solutions for sustainable development in Nigeria.