Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture Advocates for Sustainable Agrifood Systems to Combat Climate Change

Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, recently underscored the critical role of proactive agricultural policies in establishing sustainable agrifood systems, capable of mitigating climate change while enhancing soil health, production levels, and the livelihoods of farmers. Speaking at a forum organized by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Rome, Kyari articulated a vision for Nigeria's agricultural future, driven by innovative strategies and international collaboration.

Reflecting on a fruitful partnership established in 2022 with the Food and Agriculture Organization, Kyari noted how this collaboration has informed vital policy analyses, steering Nigeria’s agricultural policymaking towards sustainability. Central to this mission is the National Agrifood Systems Investment Plan, which aims to amplify investments, increase food production, create jobs, and lower poverty rates, all while promoting reforestation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Kyari outlined several initiatives designed to create a climate-resilient and nature-positive food system, including the distribution of improved seeds, sustainable soil management, and the expansion of agroforestry. The plan also focuses on empowering smallholder farmers, particularly women and youth, to ensure inclusivity within Nigeria’s agricultural transformation.

Furthermore, Kyari emphasized the importance of aligning Nigeria’s forthcoming nationally determined contributions with these agricultural strategies, which include scaling up climate-smart agriculture and restoring degraded lands through sustainable practices. By positioning the country under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, Nigeria is crafting policies and market mechanisms aimed at facilitating carbon trading, which could attract vital investments while directly benefiting smallholder farmers.

Kyari called for a concerted global effort, urging stakeholders and international financial institutions to increase support through concessional and blended financing, sharing risks to implement impactful programs that reach rural communities. He expressed gratitude for the technical support from FAO and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, highlighting the importance of cross-country knowledge sharing in driving innovation.

Despite these advancements, Kyari acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the agricultural sector, including low yields, limited access to credit, and heightened vulnerability to climate change. In response, the government has intensified efforts to modernize agriculture through mechanization, improved irrigation, and seed varieties. As global initiatives press countries to align food production systems with climate goals, Nigeria is poised to lead by example, ushering in a new era of sustainable agriculture that promises resilience, inclusivity, and enhanced food security for all.