The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has called for sustained collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to accelerate agricultural productivity, create employment opportunities, and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.
The minister made the appeal during a bilateral meeting with FAO Director-General, Dr. QU Dongyu, on the sidelines of the 2025 World Food Forum (WFF) held in Rome, Italy.
Senator Kyari highlighted that a strengthened partnership with FAO is crucial for Nigeria’s ambition to achieve food and nutrition security for its growing population.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Agriculture planned to deepen cooperation with FAO in expanding irrigation infrastructure, which would enhance water management and boost resilience for smallholder farmers, enabling them to sustain agricultural production throughout the year.
The minister also underscored the need to advance agricultural mechanisation initiatives.
He stressed that improved mechanisation was essential to increase efficiency, raise productivity levels, and add value within rural farming communities across the country.
A key point in the discussions was the minister’s emphasis on FAO’s support in establishing a comprehensive national farmers’ database.
Such a database would be instrumental for effective policy planning, resource allocation, and monitoring of agricultural programmes nationwide.
Senator Kyari also renewed Nigeria’s request for FAO’s technical and financial assistance in the urgent recharge and restoration of the Lake Chad Basin.
This initiative aimed to revive agribusiness activities, restore livelihoods, and strengthen food security in the affected region.
In a statement from the ministry, Ezeaja Ikemefuna, Head of the Department of Information, reported that the minister also appealed for increased employment opportunities for qualified Nigerians within the FAO headquarters and its global offices.
This request was made in recognition of Nigeria’s sustained commitment to agricultural transformation and food security.
Responding, Dr. Dongyu reaffirmed FAO’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural priorities. He pledged continued cooperation towards achieving shared objectives of enhancing food security, climate resilience, and rural prosperity.
The meeting reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships that align with Nigeria’s strategic goals in agriculture and sustainable development.
