What's Happening?
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to improving seed quality and achieving food sovereignty through various agricultural initiatives. At the 2025 World Food Forum Global in Rome,
the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, highlighted the FAO–Türkiye–Nigeria South–South Cooperation programme. This initiative aims to enhance dry land farming, boost food security, and promote sustainable forest management, particularly in Borno State. The program involves introducing improved crop varieties, training farmers, and establishing infrastructure like irrigation systems.
Why It's Important?
This commitment is crucial for Nigeria's agricultural transformation and food security. By improving seed quality and agricultural practices, Nigeria aims to become a regional hub for high-value crop production and export. The initiative supports economic growth, poverty reduction, and resilience against climate change. It also emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and innovation in addressing food security challenges. The program's success could serve as a model for other countries facing similar agricultural and food security issues.
What's Next?
The Nigerian government plans to continue promoting policies that encourage innovation and private sector participation in agriculture. There will be increased investment in research and development to breed climate-resilient, high-yielding crop varieties. Strengthening certification and quality assurance systems is also a priority to ensure the availability of high-quality seeds. The government aims to empower institutions like the National Agricultural Seeds Council to serve both national and regional markets effectively.
