Nigeria has called for an enhanced partnership with the United Nations to advance sustainable agricultural development and strengthen food security. The appeal was made during a visit by UN Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Amina Mohammed to Nigeria, where she engaged with key stakeholders in Abuja on Tuesday.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, welcomed Mohammed and highlighted the critical role of the UN in Nigeria’s development, especially in the agriculture sector. He emphasized that the partnership is crucial given Nigeria’s large population and growing demand for food security.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Amina Mohammed to discuss our mutual partnership with the UN in agriculture and food security,” Kyari stated. “Our collaboration aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and our strategies for the next four years.”
Kyari underscored the alignment of the Ministry’s mandate with Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, which prioritizes food security, economic growth, job creation, and poverty eradication. He also noted Nigeria’s long-standing cooperation with UN organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
“Nigeria has a history of successful cooperation with various UN agencies,” Kyari added. “Our financial contributions and partnership efforts aim to boost food production and enhance the resilience of Nigeria’s food systems.”
The Minister called for additional support for programs like the Value Chain Development Programme and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project – Niger Delta, which focus on increasing food production and improving livelihoods in rural areas.
Dr. Amina Mohammed, addressing the event, acknowledged the critical food security challenges faced by Nigeria. She highlighted that the crisis is compounded by both domestic issues and global disruptions, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
“We are aware of the severe situation affecting smallholder farmers and the broader food security crisis,” Mohammed said. “The UN is involved in planning efforts to address the needs of displaced populations while tackling security issues.”
Mohammed stressed that resolving the crisis will require time and resources, but she expressed optimism about Nigeria’s strategic approach. “With adequate support, the government’s strategy has the potential to effectively manage the food security issue,” she noted.
On the role of technology and biotechnology, Mohammed acknowledged the controversy but emphasized the need for policies that balance innovation with the protection of agricultural systems. “We need to ensure that our approaches are both innovative and protective of our agricultural systems,” she added.
The visit marks a significant step in strengthening the Nigeria-UN partnership, aiming to enhance cooperation and drive sustainable development in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
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