The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen Abubakar Kyari and Mr. Tony Elumelu during the 49th Governing Council of IFAD in Rome, Italy.
Nigeria has pushed for stronger global investment in young people and women in agriculture, calling it essential for creating jobs, driving innovation, and securing long-term food security.
The call came at the 49th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council in Rome, held under the theme “From Farm to Market: Investing in Young Entrepreneurs.”
In a statement issued by the Head Department of Information, Ezeaja Ikemefuna, reveals that the session opened with the election of Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, as Chairperson of IFAD’s Governing Council. He previously served as Vice Chair.
Speaking after his election, Mr Kyari thanked member states for their confidence, pledging to serve “with humility, diligence, and an unwavering focus on rural women and men worldwide.”
Youth and women at the centre of change
Speaking to delegates, Senator Kyari said prioritising youth and women in agriculture is crucial to tackling hunger and poverty.
He said the initiative will “unlock economic opportunities, drive innovation, and foster inclusive growth,” strengthening food systems globally.
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He linked Nigeria’s leadership at IFAD to President Bola Tinubu’s national agenda, which prioritises food security. “Nigeria’s stewardship aligns with efforts to boost agricultural productivity, expand opportunities for young people and women, and build systems resilient to climate and market shocks,” he said.
Turning policy into action
The minister also praised the IFAD Nigeria Country Office, led by Country Director Ms Dede Ekoue, for translating global commitments into tangible results for rural communities.
According to him, the office will continue to strengthen agricultural value chains, empower youth and women, and enhance resilience among smallholder farmers.
Key issues on the agenda
The session highlighted:
- Young innovators transforming rural economies, showcased in a centre stage event featuring IFAD President Dr Álvaro Lario and entrepreneur Tony Elumelu.
- The vital role of women farmers in food production, marking the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
- Urgent investment needs for water security, irrigation, and climate-resilient agriculture.
As the meeting concluded, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to multilateral cooperation to fight hunger and poverty, cementing its role as a proactive voice for inclusive and sustainable agriculture worldwide.
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