...calls for strategic investment in youth, women in food production

By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – AS the 49th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council ends in Rome, Italy, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen Abubakar Kyari, reaffirmed that Nigeria will champion multilateral cooperation and confront hunger and poverty.

Kyari who was elected as Chairperson of the IFAD’s Governing Council (GC) during opening of the session with the theme ‘From Farm to Market: Investing in Young Entrepreneurs’, highlighted the critical role of youth in driving jobs creation, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Meanwhile, according to a statement signed by the Head, Department of Information, Ezeaja Ikemefuna, said having previously served as Vice Chair, his (Kyari) election reflects the confidence of Member States in Nigeria’s constructive engagement and leadership in advancing global food security.

The statement reads in part, “Sen. Kyari expressed profound appreciation to Member States for the trust reposed in him, reaffirming his commitment to serve with humility, diligence, and an unwavering focus on rural women and men worldwide

“Addressing participants at the biennial event, the Chairperson highlighted that emphasis on youth and women in agriculture aims to unlock economic opportunities, drive innovation, and foster inclusive growth, ultimately strengthening food systems and reducing hunger and poverty across the globe

“He lauded President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his clear mandate which places food security at the centre of the country’s national priorities noting that Nigeria’s stewardship at IFAD aligns with the President’s charge to strengthen agricultural productivity, expand opportunities for youth and women, as well as build resilient systems capable of withstanding climate and market disruptions

“He commended the strong work of the IFAD Nigeria Country Office, led by Country Director, Ms. Dede Ekoue and her team for their dedication which continues to translate global commitments into measurable impacts for rural communities across the country, particularly in strengthening value chains, empowering youth and women, while also building resilience for smallholder farmers

“As the conference closed, Nigeria reaffirmed its resolve to champion multilateral cooperation in confronting hunger and poverty, demonstrating that the nation remains a responsible and forward-looking voice on the global stage.”

Meanwhile, the Minister called for strategic investment in youth and women in food production and also empowerment generation.

Key highlights of the 49th Session included: the Centre Stage Event featuring drive IFAD President, Dr. Álvaro Lario, and leading African entrepreneur Mr. Tony Elumelu highlighted the catalytic role of young innovators in transforming rural economies.

Recognition of women farmers’ critical role in strengthening food systems, marking the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Urgent priorities of water security and climate resilience, with calls for strategic investment in irrigation and adaptive infrastructure.