By Ameen Ayinla
The Kwara State Government has advocated for more farmer-friendly agricultural policies to boost food security and encourage greater participation in the sector.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, stated this while participating in the Community of Practice Summit on the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP).
Dr. Abolore Alabi reaffirmed the State’s commitment to agricultural transformation, noting that Kwara’s strategies are driven by the vision of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who has consistently positioned agriculture as a pillar of inclusive growth and food security.
He highlighted the State’s consolidation of gains in the rice value chain, continuous support for farmers, and the promotion of a backyard farming initiative already active across communities—bringing direct benefits to farmers and households alike.
The Commissioner further revealed that Kwara is in advanced discussions with partners to establish a bio-fertilizer manufacturing facility, a project aimed at improving soil health, reducing input costs, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
Dr. Alabi emphasized that these programmes demonstrate the State’s determination to deliver measurable outcomes while ensuring alignment with the Kampala Declaration and Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda.
He added that through Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision, Kwara remains committed to advancing innovative initiatives that strengthen agrifood systems and position the State as a model for agricultural progress in Nigeria and across Africa.
The summit brought together Commissioners of Agriculture, policymakers, experts, and development partners to deliberate on the Kampala Declaration (2026–2035)—a 10-year continental roadmap aimed at strengthening food security, improving farmer livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agricultural growth across Africa.
A major session titled “Strengthening the Community of Practice (CoP): Role of Commissioners of Agriculture in Championing Implementation and State-Level Experience Sharing” underscored the leadership role of Commissioners in advancing CAADP outcomes.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, addressed participants with a keynote presentation focused on repositioning Nigeria’s agriculture in line with continental priorities.
In his address, the Minister unveiled a simplified version of the Kampala Declaration as a guide for action at both national and state levels, stressing the importance of stronger alignment between federal and state efforts in building resilient food systems.
Edited by Azeezat Hambali
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