In an effort to confront the challenge of food insecurity in Nigeria, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has announced that the ministry is gearing up to host the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation Summit on Agriculture this year. The D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation brings together countries such as Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey in fostering economic collaboration among its members.
Kyari, in a recent meeting with the Secretary-General of D-8 Countries in Africa, Ambassador Isiaka Imam underscored the significance of this collaboration. He emphasised that the primary objective is a collective effort to addressing the challenges jeopardising food security in Nigeria. Making known the urgency of adopting climate smart agriculture, Kyari explained its pivotal role in modernising agricultural practices. Addressing demographic concerns, he disclosed Nigeria’s projected population of over 400 million by 2050, expressing concerns about resource strain due to climate change and insecurity, and emphasised the necessity for innovative solutions. The minister envisions that the summit would be an opportunity for Nigeria to gain valuable insights and experiences from other nations, strengthening its strategies to combat food insecurity.
Imam, in his response, sheds light on the organisation’s objectives, stressing the importance of Nigeria prioritising climate smart agriculture. He informed about the establishment of an Agriculture Research Centre in Pakistan, which began operations since March 2023, extending an invitation for collaboration and support from all member states. The D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation, extending beyond regional boundaries, aims to enhance member states’ positions in the global economy, diversify trade relations, increase participation in international decision-making, and improve overall standards of living. FarmingFarmersFarms gathered that this upcoming summit, whose date would be released soon, promises the fostering global dialogue to bolster Nigeria’s efforts at ensuring food security for its teeming population.
