Nigeria’s New Agricultural Working Group To Transform Food System

News in brief:
– Nigeria has inaugurated the Agricultural Sector Working Group to drive collaboration, boost food production, and improve governance across the sector.
– It will support policy development, enhance access to credit, and help implement Africa-wide goals for sustainable food systems and climate resilience.

To boost Nigeria’s agricultural development and ensure food security, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has inaugurated the Agricultural Sector Working Group (ASWG).

The initiative, launched in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria, brings together key players in the sector to foster collaboration, enhance governance, and drive sustainable progress.

The ASWG aims to promote synergy across Nigeria’s diverse agrifood subsectors—crop production, livestock, fisheries, and forestry. According to the Minister, who will chair the group, it will help track performance, improve accountability, and shape strategic policies to address gaps in the system.

“Through joint efforts, we can boost food production, address policy challenges, and secure the future of agriculture,” said Senator Kyari.

Today marks a significant milestone in our journey toward transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The inauguration of the Agricultural Sector Working Group (ASWG) reaffirms our commitment to inclusive, evidence-based, and sustainable development. This platform brings together… pic.twitter.com/Z5VBN5OWyi

— Sen. Abubakar Kyari, CON (@SenatorAKyari) April 15, 2025

The group supports the implementation of the 2025 Kampala Declaration, which commits African nations to increasing agricultural output by 45% by 2035. It also aligns with the African Union’s agri-food system transformation agenda, ensuring that Nigeria plays a leading role on the continent.

Key responsibilities of the ASWG

• Policy Advisory: Guide evidence-based policymaking

• Synergy & Integration: Strengthen collaboration across all agriculture sub-sectors

• Resource Mobilisation: Coordinate funding and support for sector initiatives

• Crisis Response: Act swiftly in agricultural emergencies

• Data Monitoring: Conduct biennial reviews to inform policies and interventions

Direct benefits to stakeholders and the public

1. Increased access to credit for smallholder and women farmers

2. More jobs and business opportunities for youth in agriculture

3. Reduced waste and inefficiency across the value chain

4. Better oversight to prevent issues like adulterated inputs

5. Improved food availability and affordability for Nigerians

6. Enhanced climate resilience through sustainable practices.

Stakeholders react positively

Azubike Nwokoye, ActionAid Nigeria’s Food Systems Specialist, welcomed the group’s creation, noting that the sector has suffered from weak coordination for years. He praised the Minister’s effort in securing a ₦1.5 trillion agricultural recapitalisation fund and urged for transparent implementation.

“We’ve seen cases where farmers were shortchanged. This platform must ensure accountability and equitable service delivery,” he stressed.

Finance Minister Wale Edun added that the ASWG will play a key role in helping Nigeria adapt to climate change and other global risks. He emphasised the need for flexibility and innovation in building an agriculture sector that is inclusive, well-funded, and resilient.