By Eshiorameh Sebastian, Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for strengthened international collaboration to drive Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, engaging top global food agencies to support the country’s push for food sovereignty.
The move comes as part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader strategy to combat food insecurity and position Nigeria as a self-sufficient agricultural powerhouse.
Speaking at the UN Food Systems Summit +4 (UNFSS+4) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Shettima outlined Nigeria’s roadmap for sustainable food production, emphasising that “true national sovereignty is incomplete without food sovereignty.”
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces significant food security challenges exacerbated by climate change, conflict, and economic pressures.
The Tinubu administration has declared a state of emergency on food security, introducing systemic reforms to modernise farming, boost yields, and ensure long-term resilience.
“Our target is to attain food sovereignty. So long as a nation is not independent in the area of food production, it remains a non-sovereign nation”, Shettima told delegates at the summit.
He acknowledged the fragile state of Nigeria’s food systems when President Tinubu took office in 2023, citing “insecurity, climate shocks, and inflationary pressures” as major hurdles.
However, he stressed that the government’s response—including the creation of the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU)—aims to harmonise policies rather than displace existing institutions.
The vice president emphasised that Nigeria is shifting from temporary food aid to sustainable solutions.
“In our displaced persons’ camps, we’re encouraging food production for dignity and resilience. “
We believe charity is not the answer. If you teach a man to fish, you empower him for life”, he said.
Key to this strategy is making agriculture more attractive to young Nigerians through mechanisation, improved seeds, and climate-smart practices.
“Our agricultural transformation must be market-driven, powered by entrepreneurship and innovation,” Shettima said.
On the sidelines of the summit, Shettima held crucial meetings with leaders of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the World Food Programme (WFP).
In discussions with FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu, Shettima sought assistance in reviving the Lake Chad Basin, a region devastated by climate change and insurgency.
“The revival of Lake Chad requires a multi-pronged approach—environmental restoration, conflict resolution, and large-scale infrastructure. FAO’s expertise is vital in unlocking the region’s agricultural potential”, Shettima said.
Dongyu praised Nigeria’s political will, calling it “a clear demonstration of committed leadership.” He pledged enhanced technical support to boost food production and climate adaptation.
During talks with IFAD President Álvaro Lario, Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s focus on empowering small-scale farmers with access to finance and modern technology.
“We are prioritising increased productivity, resilience, and commercialisation—not handouts,” the vice president said. Lario assured IFAD’s commitment to scaling up projects benefiting rural communities.
Shettima also met WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain, commending the agency’s humanitarian work while stressing Nigeria’s shift toward sustainable solutions.
McCain affirmed WFP’s continued partnership in areas like school feeding and nutrition support, particularly in conflict-affected zones.
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