The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has unveiled a five-point strategy aimed at transforming Nigeria’s agricultural research system into a globally competitive and commercially driven sector capable of boosting food security and economic growth.
Speaking on Nigeria Day at the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week in Abuja, Kyari identified scientific excellence, digital transformation, commercialisation, human capital development and stronger partnerships as the key priorities for repositioning agricultural research in the country.
The minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu recognises agricultural research as a strategic national investment that will drive productivity, create jobs and strengthen Nigeria’s food security.
According to him, the Federal Government has commenced the operationalisation of the National Agricultural Development Fund while also strengthening the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) and the country’s agricultural research institutes through the provision of modern laboratories, equipment and digital infrastructure.
Kyari disclosed that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data analytics, are being integrated into agricultural research, extension services and planning to improve productivity and innovation across the sector.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s ambition to become a regional hub for agricultural research and innovation, urging African countries to invest more in scientists, research institutions and home-grown technologies capable of addressing the continent’s food production challenges.
“The future of African agriculture will be shaped by the quality of our science, the strength of our institutions and our commitment to innovation,” the minister said.
The minister noted that strengthening research and innovation remains central to the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise agriculture, enhance food production and position Nigeria as a leader in agricultural science and technology across Africa.
