Kyari pushes youth and women empowerment in agriculture at IFAD session in Rome
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has emphasised the need for strategic investment in youth and women in agriculture, describing it as critical to unlocking economic opportunities, driving innovation and fostering inclusive growth globally.
Kyari made the call at the 49th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council, which concluded in Rome under the theme, “From Farm to Market: Investing in Young Entrepreneurs.” The session focused on the role of young people in job creation and transforming rural economies.
The minister, who was elected Chairperson of IFAD’s Governing Council at the opening of the biennial meeting, said prioritising youth and women in agriculture would ultimately strengthen food systems and reduce hunger and poverty worldwide. He had previously served as Vice Chair of the Council.
Expressing appreciation to Member States for the confidence reposed in him, Kyari pledged to serve with humility and maintain a strong focus on rural communities, particularly women and young people.
He lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a clear mandate placing food security at the centre of Nigeria’s national priorities. According to him, Nigeria’s leadership role at IFAD aligns with the President’s directive to boost agricultural productivity, expand opportunities for youth and women, and build resilient systems capable of withstanding climate and market disruptions.
Kyari noted that empowering young entrepreneurs and women farmers is essential to modernising agriculture, strengthening value chains and creating sustainable livelihoods across rural communities.
He also commended the IFAD Nigeria Country Office, led by Country Director Ms. Dede Ekoue, for translating global commitments into measurable impact at the grassroots level, particularly in supporting smallholder farmers, improving resilience and expanding opportunities for women and youth.
As the session wrapped up, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to multilateral cooperation in tackling hunger and poverty, positioning itself as an active voice in advancing global food security.
