FG adopts revised gender policy to boost agriculture, food security in Nigeria

The federal government says it has validated a revised national policy aimed at promoting gender inclusion and strengthening Nigeria’s agrifood system as part of efforts to improve food security.

The policy, developed by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria and other stakeholders, was unveiled on May 5, at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, represented by the Minister of State, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, described the policy as “a practical framework designed to ensure equitable access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making for both women and men in the agricultural sector.”

He added that the initiative marks “a major milestone in ongoing reforms to build a more inclusive, productive, and sustainable agricultural sector.”

Kyari highlighted the importance of agriculture to Nigeria’s economy but warned of existing inequalities. “Agriculture remains central to our national priorities, contributing significantly to food security, employment, and economic growth, but persistent gender disparities continue to limit the full participation of many Nigerians, particularly women,” he said.

Emphasising the policy’s impact, he stated: “The policy will strengthen the integration of gender-responsive approaches across agricultural programmes and interventions, which is key to unlocking the full potential of the sector.”

He also urged stakeholders to act, noting, “All relevant institutions must integrate this policy into their plans, programmes, and budgets, while the Ministry will ensure strong monitoring and accountability mechanisms to deliver measurable results.”

In his remarks, Abdullahi said the Ministry’s programmes align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“One of our flagship initiatives is the development of a Standard Framework for Ease of Doing Agriculture and Food Security, with strong emphasis on inclusiveness for youth and women across agricultural ecosystems,” he said.

He further disclosed ongoing social interventions, adding: “In collaboration with Oluremi Tinubu, we are promoting the ‘Every Home a Garden’ initiative alongside nutrition and home economics programmes to improve food and nutrition security.”