Robust, stronger collaboration will sustain gain in agric sector – Abdullahi
From left: Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi and FAO Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Hussein Gadain during a courtesy visit to the ministry
Omeiza Bilal
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi has said that robust and stronger collaboration with the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other Relevant Stakeholders would sustain gain in the agricultural sector, enhance productivity and improve livelihoods of Nigerian farmers.
The Minister made this known during a courtesy visit by FAO Delegation led by the Country Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Hussein Gadain Thursday in Abuja.
Abdullahi said that the collaboration would continue to promote climate-resilient farming, improve access to quality seeds, adopt modern agricultural techniques, and strengthen the agricultural value chains, among others.
The Minister revealed that the Ministry has maintained a long-standing working relationship with the FAO, particularly in the area of improving technical and financial support and agricultural data management.
He solicited for more support towards improving irrigation systems across the country, noting that expanded and modernize irrigation infrastructure is essential for promoting year-round farming and increase food production.
He added that plant health and pest management as critical areas requiring urgent attention, describing it as key determinants of agricultural productivity. ‘’measures to prevent and control pests and diseases will significantly improve crop yields and promote sustainable farming practices’’.
Earlier in his remarks, FAO Country Representative for Nigeria and ECOWAS, Hussein Gadain said that Nigeria has significant agricultural potential that would be harnessed through continuous partnership and strategic interventions
He highlighted key areas for collaboration; improve market systems, promote climate-smart agriculture, and enhance national agricultural data management, among others.
