News Agency of Nigeria
Biotech experts urge scaling of technology for food security
Science & Tech

Biotech experts urge scaling of technology for food security

By Sylvester Thompson

Experts at the 37th Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN) Conference have called for scaling proven agricultural biotechnologies to boost food security and farmer livelihoods.

The experts emphasised the urgent need to prioritise the widespread adoption of high-yielding, climate-resilient crops such as PBR cowpea and TELA maize.

They said such crops were capable of greatly increasing food production, stabilising farmer incomes, and reducing poverty.

In a communiqué signed and issued on Sunday in Abuja by Prof. Sylvia Uzochukwu, President of the BSN, participants outlined key recommendations aimed at harnessing biotechnology for national development and prosperity.

They stressed the importance of sovereign investment in bio-manufacturing infrastructure.

They also highlighed the need for the establishment of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facilities and biomanufacturing corridors to enable domestic production of essential bio-products, including vaccines, biofertilisers, and therapeutics.

According to the communiqué, such efforts will help capture economic value chains, generate high-skilled jobs, reduce reliance on imports, and strategically position Nigeria as a regional biotechnology hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The conference also called for the implementation of proactive public health surveillance systems, including the immediate establishment of a national wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) programme to serve as an early warning system for emerging pathogens and public health threats.

“This protects the workforce’s health, ensures economic stability by enabling faster responses to outbreaks, and integrates data for smarter public health.’’

The experts said government should enact science-driven policies and foster collaboration to build a resilient bioeconomy, as well as create harmonised, supportive biosafety and intellectual property laws to accelerate innovation.

“Simultaneously, combat misinformation, mandate cross-sector collaboration, and invest in continuous human capital development to build a functional ecosystem where innovation can thrive from the laboratory to the market,’’ the communique read.

The 37th BSN Conference affirmed that biotechnology was the indispensable catalyst for Nigeria’s national growth, food and nutrition security, wealth creation, health resilience, and environmental sustainability.

Accordingly, the conference urgently called for a concerted national effort to embrace these recommendations which was imperative for building a self-reliant, resilient, and competitive bioeconomy.

Among key observations recorded was that biotechnology was not merely a scientific field but the hope of the future, essential for solving Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.

Such challenges of ensuring food security in the face of climate change, combating endemic diseases, poverty alleviation, and building a resilient, self-reliant economy were mentioned.

Also, that Nigeria’s potential was hindered not by a lack of scientific talent or resources, but by critical gaps in infrastructure like GMP manufacturing facilities, molecular labs for WBE, regulatory hurdles, among others.

The 37th annual BSN conference, which held between Aug.20 and Aug. 22, was tagged “Umudike 2025”.

Its theme was: Innovative Biotechnology for National Growth: Pathways to Food Security, Health and Environmental Sustainability, aimed at addressing critical issues impacting agriculture in the nation. (NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

FirstBank lauds FG’s robust agriculture agenda
Agriculture , Food Security

FirstBank lauds FG’s robust agriculture agenda

By Mercy Omoike

First Bank of Nigeria Ltd., has applauded the Federal Government’s efforts in boosting Nigeria’s agriculture agenda for food sovereignty.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Nigeria Ltd., Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, said this at the bank’s 2025 Agric & Export Expo on Tuesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FirstBank 2025 Agric & Export Expo with the theme: “The Fundamentals of Building an Export-Driven Economy,” is aimed at boosting non-oil exports.

Alebiosu commended the federal government drive in achieving food sovereignty and vowed the bank’s continued commitment in fostering the growth Nigeria’s agriculture sector.

“It is with great honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I welcome you to the 2025 edition of the FirstBank Agric & Export Expo.

“Over the years, this gathering has grown into a defining platform, a testament to FirstBank’s unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s economic priorities.

“The expo reflects our shared vision for a stronger, more resilient economy, one anchored on food security, agribusiness, solid minerals, and most critically, the expansion of non-oil exports,’’ he said.

Alebiosu noted that agriculture that was once overlooked was gaining a significant place in the heart of Nigeria’s national development agenda.

“We commend the federal government’s commitment to elevating the sector and reaffirm our role as a steadfast partner in this journey.

“This year’s theme: The Fundamentals of Building an Export-Driven Economy, could not be timelier.

“As a nation, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in our economic journey, one that demands bold diversification beyond oil and the harnessing of the vast opportunities in our non-oil sectors,” Alebiosu said.

He described the expo as a beacon for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.

“Our history is deeply connected to agriculture and non-oil sectors.

“For more than a century, we have played a defining role in financing industries that are vital not only to Nigeria’s economic progress, but also to the development of sub-Saharan Africa.

“Our portfolio spans the full spectrum of agribusiness, from primary production to processing and export.

“Across the country, our dedicated teams deliver sector-focused, client-friendly financial solutions tailored to the distinct needs of agricultural and solid minerals enterprises.

“This is ensuring that they have the resources to thrive and compete on a global scale,” Alebiosu said.

On his part, The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, represented by his Special Adviser, Mr Ibrahim Alkali, commended the Bank’s commitment in the agriculture sector.

“The fundamentals of building non-oil export driven economy, is not merely an intellectual discussion, it is a survival strategy for our nation.

“Nigeria must no longer live at the mercy of oil marketers, but on the strength of productivity, our creativity and our resilience.

“FirstBank has long has been a pioneer in agricultural financing.

“Its agricultural portfolio has grown by N11.6 billion in recent years, supporting farmer’s processors and exporters.

“Through the commercial agriculture credit scheme, FirstBank has financed more enterprises than any other bank, accounting for over 23 per cent of all participation with dedicated agricultural finance teams,” Kyari said.

In his goodwill message, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the bank while calling for more financing in the agriculture sector.

“We must move away from our dependence and build a resilient economy that is anchored on productivity, value addition and competitiveness in the non-oil sector.

“For over 130 years, FirstBank has stood as a part of Nigeria’s economic story by promoting exports.

“You are not only reaffirming your commitments and culture, but you are also signaling to farmers, to processors, to exporters, that you have a reliable partner in building a truly export driven economy.

“For this, I commend the Managing Director and the management at FirstBank for its leadership role for promoting agro-exports.

“We have to aggressively position agricultural product, we must ensure that we are competitive. We must secure our market share, and we must drive investment into the agro businesses,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Also, the Governor of Niger, Mr Mohammed Bago, commended the bank for tapping into President Tinubu’s Transformation Agenda in the agriculture sector.

“People must be able to feed themselves, and President Tinubu has made this a fundamental principle in this government, so we have scaled in.

“So, there is a need for us to tell our stories ourselves. On behalf of the Government of people of Niger State, I thank FirstBank for this exhibition,” Bago said.

Present at the expo were exhibitors across the various agriculture value chains as well as farmers’ associations. (NAN)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Nwoko seeks ranching law to boost food security
Agriculture

Nwoko seeks ranching law to boost food security

By Deborah Coker

Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) has called for the establishment, development, and management of ranches across the 774 local government areas and the FCT to enhance food security.

Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday that his proposal is contained in a bill currently before the Senate.

The bill is titled: “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment, Development, and Management of Ranches in the 774 Local Government Areas and the Federal Capital Territory, to Promote Modern Livestock Farming, Curb Open Grazing, Enhance Food Security, and for Related Matters”.

He explained that the legislation seeks to establish a robust legal framework for ranch development and management nationwide.

The lawmaker, who is Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment, said the bill also aims to promote modern livestock farming, curb open grazing, and strengthen food security.

According to him, it makes provisions for state-level approvals for land allocation, environmental sustainability in ranch projects, and transparent funding through public-private partnerships.

“It also outlines the establishment of a Ranch Management and Development Agency to provide regulatory oversight, enforce compliance, and implement sustainable ranching practices.

“It will address conflict resolution mechanisms to mediate disputes among stakeholders while ensuring compliance with strict environmental and socio-economic guidelines,” he said.

Nwoko, who is also Chairman, Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, said the bill would regulate ranching operations and related activities to prevent and resolve conflicts, especially between farmers and herders.

He added that it would promote the modernisation of livestock farming practices, ensure federal, state, and local government collaboration, and uphold constitutional provisions and land tenure laws.

“It will protect the rights of individuals, communities, and other stakeholders in the allocation and use of land for ranching, in line with the Land Use Act and other legislation.

“It will also advance environmental sustainability by ensuring compliance with prescribed standards for establishing and operating ranches,” he said.

Nwoko said the legislation further provides for the welfare, health, and disease control of livestock, the resolution of disputes through statutory mechanisms, and recognition of ranching standards under the law.

He noted that the bill would also create an enabling environment for private sector participation in ranch development, including incentives and partnerships, while enhancing national food security through sustainable livestock production.

According to him, it will ensure fair compensation and resettlement of individuals and communities whose lands are acquired for ranching projects.

It will also promote economic development and job creation by integrating ranching into local economies.

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

 

Nigerian Navy unveils farm to boost food security
Defence/Security

Nigerian Navy unveils farm to boost food security

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

In a bid to contribute to the Nigerian Government’s drive to boost food security, the Nigerian Navy has embarked on an innovative agricultural initiative to cultivate crops and promote self-sufficiency.

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, disclosed this during the unveiling of Admiralty Integrated Farms Limited (ADIFAL) Coordination Centre and Logo, in Abuja on Wednesday.

Ogalla, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Navy), Rear Adm. Ibrahim Dewu said the occasion marked a significant milestone in their collective effort to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development, which is in line with the President’s visionary directive.

According to him, the President has emphasised the importance of the Armed Forces engaging actively in farming initiatives.

Ogalla said the directive aims to address some critical issues confronting the nation such as the persistent conflicts between herders and farmers, banditry and kidnapping and the urgent need to boost food security.

“It is heartwarming to see our naval personnel taking up this challenge with dedication and patriotism, exemplifying the spirit of service and commitment that defines our Armed Forces,” he said.

Ogalla commended the management and officers and men of ADIFAL for their efforts and dedication, urging them to continue with the vigor and resolve to meet the lofty goals set before them.

He added that the initiative underscored the importance of civil-military cooperation to foster a spirit of collaboration and understanding with the civilian counterparts.

“Our interactions should be fair, respectful and rooted in the shared goal of national development.

“Civil-military synergy is crucial in achieving sustainable solutions, especially in areas such as agriculture where the benefits extend across all facets of the society.

“Let me reiterate that the success of ADIFAL hinges on our collective resolve and unwavering commitment.

“Your efforts will not only contribute to food sufficiency but will also promote peace and stability in our communities and the entire country,” he added.

In his brief, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ADIFAL, Rear Adm. Julius Nwago, said that food, nutrition and security were prime goals that governments seek to achieve globally.

Nwago said that one of the options adopted by some countries to achieve food security was the engagement of the military into agriculture.

According to him, military agricultural farm facilities in the world consider size, production, sustainability practices, and specific focus areas.

He said the farm would adopt a comprehensive precision agriculture model that begins from the earliest stages of farm planning-right from land clearing and crop selection-through planting, crop nurturing, harvesting, storage, and processing.

According to him, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are key enablers in each stage, providing data-driven insights that help maximize yield, reduce waste, and improve decision-making.

“To facilitate this, ADIFAL has developed the ADIFAL Agro-precision Farming Platform – a centralised digital system that guides onboarded farmers in practicing precision agriculture.

“This platform draws on data from Satellites, Radar, Drones, and Live Visual/Audio Feeds to deliver intelligent recommendations throughout the agricultural lifecycle.

“The platform which is the Centerpiece of ADIFAL’s innovation is housed at the centralised ADIFAL Coordination Centre.

“The platform features Predictive Al models and Generative Al tools that provide real-time responses to farmers’ questions and concerns during the farming season,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Benson Iziama

Wike pledges land for farming to tackle food insecurity in FCT
Agriculture

Wike pledges land for farming to tackle food insecurity in FCT

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, on Monday, promised to allocate lands in satellite towns to farmers for agricultural production to combat food insecurity.

Wike made the promise in Abuja on Monday, during the inauguration of the newly constructed rural road from A2 Junction (Abuja-Lokoja Expressway) to Pai community in Kwali Area Council of the FCT.

The road was among the 17 projects executed by the FCT Administration and being inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu to celebrate his second year in office.

The minister, who said that the road network had opened up the hitherto locked rural areas to economic activities, particularly agriculture, reaffirmed FCT Administration’s support to farmers.

“Look at the vast area of land and we are talking about food insecurity.

“With these vast lands, those of you who want to be farmers, real farmers, we are willing to pay compensation to communities and give you farmlands to cultivate.

“This will help us to come out of the food insecurity which the Federal Government is trying to solve,” he said.

Wike, however, said that only real farmers would be considered and not political farmers.

According to him, political farmers will keep the land as speculators and when development comes to the area, they will find ways to sell the lands.

Similarly, Tinubu noted the untap potential of the vast arable land in satellite towns and pledged his administration support to boost agricultural productivity.

“On our way here, we saw opportunities, prosperity, and the need for the establishment of ranches and rural development to uplift the lives of our rural people.

“I observed the need for our great farmers and livestock owners to establish opportunities for grazing and do what is necessary.

“We will help you. We will work with you.

“We will combat what used to be a liability and a source of conflict and turn it into a means of prosperity,” Tinubu said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

FCT rural road interventions ‘ll boost food security – Wike
General News

FCT rural road interventions ‘ll boost food security – Wike

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, said the ongoing road construction in rural communities of the nation’s capital will boost food security.

Wike said this in Abuja on Saturday, after he inspected ongoing projects in the territory in preparation for inauguration to celebrate President Bola Tinubu second anniversary.

Some of the projects included the completed Market and Palace Road in Gwagwalada, completed 15-kilometre A2 to Pai and the ongoing 15.4-km Pai to Gumani in Kwali Area Council.

The minister also inspected the ongoing dualisation of Ushafa to Military Checkpoint and War College Roads in Bwari Area Council.

Wike, who marvelled at the vast arable land between Pai to Gumani, said that access roads in rural communities would significantly boost agricultural production and impact food security in the long run.

“When we inaugurated the road project, where we stopped was from A2 to Pai, which has been completed, and then Pai to Gumani which is ongoing.

“But we never saw the expanse of the road because there was no road to drive on. Thank God we were able to go there today, and you can see the vast land.

“We should not be talking about food insecurity in Nigeria – look at the land; look at the water that could be used for irrigation.

“It’s just leadership and I belief with the leadership we have today under Tinubu, you will see what is going to happen in those areas,” he said.

He added that not much was being done in rural areas in terms of agriculture because there was no access road and the lands were not being put to good agricultural use.

He expresses confidence that with the ongoing roads construction in rural communities, more lands would be utilised for mechanise agriculture.

“This will boost agricultural production and significantly impact food security.

“Without roads people that want to invest in mechanised agriculture will not be encouraged,” he said.

Describing roads as the “centrepiece and the cornerstone” of every development anywhere in the world, the minister pointed out that roads attract other development projects.

He said that with roads other things would follow, “you can go and build schools; you can go and build health facilities, but when roads are not there you can do little or nothing”.

To further improve road connectivity in rural areas, the minister revealed that he had directed the Director of Satellite Towns Development Department to extend the Pai to Gumani road project by another 13-killomtre.

He said that the road would be extended to connect Gumani and Yangoje, also in Kwali Area Council.

“The road when completed will be more than 43 kilometres from A2 (Abuja – Lokoja Expressway) to Yangoje.

“We are happy with what we have done and you can see the people are happy.

“This is what development is all about and this is what it means to provide dividends of democracy to the people,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FG targets irrigation to boost food security
Agriculture , Food Security

FG targets irrigation to boost food security

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food security in Nigeria through strategic support for farmers, improved irrigation systems, and climate resilience measures.

Speaking at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, announced plans to commission 11 new projects in 2025.

According to him, these include dams, irrigation schemes, and water supply systems in Benue, Jigawa, and Yobe; key agricultural zones with high food production potential.

Utsev revealed that the ministry was implementing the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) project, in collaboration with 20 states, to modernise dam and irrigation infrastructure and develop a national hydropower masterplan.

The states involved are Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Delta, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara.

The minister said the River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs), the ministry’s implementing agencies, had supported farmers with more than 154,000 hectares of irrigated land.

“In addition, tractors and harvesters have been distributed to enhance mechanised farming. As part of ongoing reforms, over 4,400 hectares of farmland have been leased to commercial farmers to expand food production,” he said.

He noted that investments in human capital were also underway, with the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) recently graduating more than 230 postgraduate students in Integrated Water Resources Management.

He added that more than 1,300 young people had been trained in technical fields such as pump installation and drilling technology.

Utsev said the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency had intensified early flood warning efforts in response to the impact of climate change on farming communities.

“More than 1,200 communities in 30 states have been identified as flood-prone in 2025. In response, the Nigerian National Flood Insurance Programme was launched in April to provide financial protection for vulnerable households and farmers.

“We are proactively addressing climate risks through science-based early warning systems and financial safety nets,” he stated.

The minister explained that the RBDAs were being partially commercialised to attract private sector participation, reclaim encroached farmlands, and improve sustainability and investment in the agriculture sector.


He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support and acknowledged the efforts of state governments, development partners, stakeholders, and the media.

“We remain committed to transforming Nigeria’s irrigation landscape, improving access to safe water, creating jobs, and reducing poverty,” he added.

Earlier, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that Nigeria’s inflation slowed to 2.06 per cent in April, down from 2.18 per cent in March, due to price drops in staple foods like maize flour, rice, and beans.

Idris attributed the progress to strategic government interventions in agriculture, transport, and essential services.

“While we are not yet where we want to be, these numbers give us hope. The tough decisions are starting to yield results,” he said.

Idris highlighted key investments in infrastructure, water, sanitation, and the creative economy, noting the Tinubu administration’s focused on restoring Nigeria’s global prominence.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to people-centred policies aimed at economic stability and called on the media to share the positive developments responsibly and patriotically.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the session was also attended by the Ministers of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and Works, Sen. David Umahi. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

River basin authorities pledge stronger partnerships for food security
Agriculture , Food Security

River basin authorities pledge stronger partnerships for food security

By Akpan Glory

The River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) have pledged to boost the Federal Government’s food security efforts by forming stronger partnerships and adopting modern agricultural technologies.

Alhaji Abubakar Malam, who spoke on behalf of the RBDA Boards and Management teams at the close of a two-day retreat in Abuja on Saturday, acknowledged the numerous challenges facing the authorities.

He noted the persistent issues of ageing infrastructure, extreme weather conditions, and insecurity that continue to hinder optimal productivity across their zones.

Malam, who is also the Managing Director of the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority, noted the dilapidated state of facilities and outdated equipment that limit the full potential of the river basin authorities.

“Our facilities are obsolete, and climate change is exacerbating the situation with flooding, erosion, and erratic weather patterns.

“Yet, we remain undeterred. We are committed to innovating, adopting modern irrigation technologies, and shifting the narrative of the River Basins to a more sustainable and productive future”.

Malam emphasised that these objectives cannot be achieved in isolation and stressed the importance of collaboration.

He stated, “We are committed to building strong partnerships, particularly with state governments, to ensure that local actions are aligned with national priorities.

“Collaboration is key to enhancing extension services, addressing community needs, and improving project outcomes”.

The Managing Directors also assured stakeholders that the river basin authorities will continue to maintain open-door policies under the federal government’s partial commercialisation framework, which aims to encourage private sector investment.

This framework is seen as an essential step in reviving Nigeria’s agricultural sector by providing opportunities for agribusiness development, rural economy revitalisation, and sustainable irrigation practices.

“In alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 13 (Climate Action), the RBDAs are focusing on expanding irrigated farmlands, equipping farmers with modern agricultural techniques.

“Others are enhancing value chains to reduce food waste, boost production, and improve market access.

“These efforts are designed to increase food availability and contribute to the goal of achieving food security for the nation by 2027,” he added.

The Joint Appointees Forum further called on development partners, private sector players, and other stakeholders to seize the emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.

The forum highlighted the potential for collaboration in revitalising rural economies through sustainable irrigation and agribusiness development, which will ultimately support the government’s food security agenda.

The retreat, which brought together the leadership of all twelve RBDAs, concluded with a renewed commitment to achieving tangible, measurable results. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

FG declares national emergency on food security
Agriculture , Food Security

FG declares national emergency on food security

By Tosin Kolade

President Bola Tinubu on Monday declared a national emergency on food security, urging expanded irrigation infrastructure and participatory water resource management nationwide.

Tinubu made the declaration while opening the 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja.

He was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.

He urged African nations to adopt innovative strategies in addressing the continent’s irrigation and water management challenges.

He described the conference theme, “Tackling Irrigation Development and Water Management Crisis in Africa”, as a clarion call to action for sustainable agriculture and economic resilience.

“Africa continues to face major challenges in unlocking its irrigation potential due to inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, climate change, and governance issues.

“This conference offers a vital platform for us to collectively chart a path forward”.

Tinubu stated that the country had more than 3.1 million hectares of irrigable land located around key river basins such as the Niger and Benue.

In his remarks, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, said the government had completed several landmark initiatives under the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project.

He announced that its successor, the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project, would address outstanding gaps while optimising the economic value of water resources to support food security.

“With the TRIMING project winding down, Nigeria is poised to begin implementation of the SPIN project in partnership with the World Bank.

“This initiative will consolidate on the successes of TRIMING and expand our irrigation potential,” Utsev said.

According to the minister, the TRIMING project, which spanned more than seven years, delivered notable achievements, including the completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori irrigation schemes and 90 per cent completion of the Middle Rima Valley irrigation project.

It also supported ongoing interventions in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.

He also noted that the project established Water Users Associations (WUAs), farmer management centres, and supported market linkages for key value chains such as rice and tomato.

The minister further revealed that River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) had developed more than 153,000 hectares of irrigable land and were being partially commercialised to attract private sector investment.

He also referenced the 2025 Flood Outlook and Risk Management Strategy, aimed at minimising flood-related impacts on agriculture.

“This conference is a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective commitment to resolving Africa’s pressing irrigation and water management issues,” he added.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Wilson-Jack, called for renewed commitment across all tiers of government to ensure national food security.

Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr Godknows Igali, underscored the urgency of strategic planning, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s growing population.

He stressed the importance of professional staffing and proper management of river basins, adding that sub-national governments must play an active role in water governance and food systems.

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, raised concerns over the shrinking farming seasons caused by climate change, warning that unpredictable rainfall patterns were creating uncertainty among farmers.

“Our fertile lands are turning to dust. Irrigation is now a necessity, not a luxury.

“Innovation must not be seen as a privilege of the few, we must empower women and youth who are at the frontline of agriculture,” Zulum said

He appealed to development partners to show greater responsiveness to the challenges of water access and rural farming in Africa.

President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), Dr Marco Arcieri, described the conference as both timely and essential.

“This could be a turning point. We’ve celebrated big ideas and set tangible goals to confront the pressing challenges.

“We remain committed to supporting Africa as it faces population growth and climate stress,” Arcieri stated.

It may be recalled that he had earlier addressed participants at the Young Professionals’ Forum, a pre-conference event which gathered emerging leaders in irrigation and water management across Africa.

Arcieri emphasised the role of young professionals in driving sustainable solutions to the continent’s water challenges.

Mr Ibrahim Musa, who leads the African Regional Working Group, expressed optimism that the conference would lead to innovative approaches and actionable outcomes in addressing Africa’s unique irrigation development needs.

The conference continues in Abuja until April 17, with technical sessions, policy dialogues, and field visits to irrigation sites across Nigeria. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

FCTA develops agric. policy to boost food security
Agriculture

FCTA develops agric. policy to boost food security

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has started developing its Agricultural Policy and Implementation Plan to guide interventions toward increasing food production in the FCT.

Mr Umar Malamiyo, acting Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, said this at an event in Gwagwalada on Wednesday, adding that the goal was to enhance food security.

Malamiyo was represented at the event by Mr Agu Igwe, the Deputy Director, Public Private Partnership in the Secretariat.

He said the engagement would help government officials and stakeholders to identify key areas that could help farmers to grow major crops in large quantities.

He pointed out that most farmers in the territory lack basic knowledge on irrigation activities and cultivation of certain food crops.

According to him, the policy, when developed, will help FCT to achieve its aims of ensuring food security through adoption of best agricultural practices in food production.

He expressed optimism that the  policy document, expected to be ready in six months, would offer solutions to all challenges affecting the agricultural sector in the territory.

Malamiyo said that the FCT Administration does not have a specific policy on agriculture to provide a sense of direction towards achieving good security for residents of the territory.

“Therefore, this exercise is geared toward developing a policy that will guide us on how best to support our farmers to boost agricultural productivity,” he said.

One of the resource persons, Prof. Oyinkan Tasie, said that the policy document would capture strategic areas in the FCT agriculture sector.

Tasie added that the move would  deepen the knowledge of farmers in adopting best agricultural practices.

“We are working with the FCT Administration to develop an agriculture policy. This will be the first of its kind since the creation of the FCT.

“Through the policy, the Administration will be able to articulate its vision in the area of agriculture, and in the long run, address hunger and other challenges affecting the attainment of food security” Tasie said.(NAN)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

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