By Felicia Imohimi
The federal government has called for stronger partnerships among African countries to transform the continent’s agrifood system, accelerate development and achieve sustainable food security.
Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, made the call on Thursday at the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW9) and 10th General Assembly of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) in Abuja.
Abdullahi urged African governments, research institutions, development partners and the private sector to translate commitments into concrete actions.
He said science-driven partnerships were critical to achieving food security, climate resilience and sustainable agricultural development across the continent.
According to him, the assembly reflected Africa’s collective resolve to harness science, innovation and collaboration to transform its agrifood systems.
He urged participants to sustain the momentum generated by translating the assembly’s resolutions into strategic partnerships and measurable impact.
“The conversations that began here must not end here.
“The partnerships established in Abuja must mature into collaborative research, stronger institutions, increased investment and measurable impact in the lives of our farmers.
“Africa cannot afford fragmented efforts. Our future depends on collective action,” he said.
The minister commended FARA for connecting regional research organisations, National Agricultural Research Systems, universities, farmer organisations, development partners and the private sector into a continental innovation ecosystem.
He said the collaboration had strengthened regional cooperation and ensured that agricultural research delivered practical benefits to farmers and agribusinesses.
Abdullahi also praised FARA’s governance culture, saying the peaceful transition to a new Board of Directors reflected the institution’s maturity, transparency and accountability.
He congratulated the newly elected chairperson and board members, urging them to consolidate existing gains by strengthening strategic partnerships and advancing FARA’s leadership in agricultural research and innovation.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting FARA’s vision and mandate.
He expressed confidence that the assembly’s resolutions would accelerate the implementation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Kampala Declaration and Agenda 2063 toward building a food-secure, resilient and prosperous Africa.
In his acceptance speech, Dr Mark Bagabe, the newly elected Chairperson of FARA’s Board, thanked delegates for the confidence reposed in him to lead the organisation over the next three years.
Bagabe pledged to strengthen agricultural research and innovation, deepen strategic partnerships, mobilise resources and investments, and advance food security across Africa.
He said his administration would focus on building resilient food systems, empowering women and young people, improving livelihoods and strengthening climate resilience in line with the aspirations of the CAADP Kampala Declaration.
He added that continuous improvement, excellence and measurable results would define his leadership as he worked to position FARA as a stronger catalyst for agricultural transformation across the continent.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured the unveiling of FARA’s new Board of Directors. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
FUA/TAK
Edited by Tosin Kolade