IFAD, FG Collaborate to Boost Food Amid Climate Change in the North
By George George Idowu
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has unveiled a collaborative effort with the Nigerian Government to launch a new initiative aimed at strengthening food production value chains in Northern Nigeria while tackling climate adaptation challenges.
Dr. Donal Brown, the Associate Vice President of IFAD in Rome, made this announcement during a media briefing at the conclusion of his official visit to Nigeria on Saturday.
The initiative aims to combat food insecurity by supporting agricultural value chains, promoting community-driven development initiatives, empowering smallholder agri-businesses, reinforcing rural institutions, and facilitating financial inclusion for rural households.
Dr. Brown stated, “We are partnering with the government to design a new project focused on supporting food production value chains in Northern Nigeria with a specific emphasis on climate adaptation.”
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IFAD has made significant investments totaling $1,586.14 million across twelve projects since 1985, benefitting approximately 3,912,180 rural households in Nigeria.
Dr. Brown expressed confidence in the partnership with the Nigerian government, highlighting the opportunity to contribute to lasting solutions for food security challenges.
He emphasized, “IFAD’s collaboration with the FGN since 1985 has facilitated the financing of 12 projects totaling $1,586.14 million, including $546.59 million from IFAD’s own resources, directly benefiting nearly 3,912,180 million Nigerian rural households.”
Furthermore, Nigeria boasts the largest portfolio in West and Central Africa and the second largest in all of Africa. IFAD has established itself as a trusted partner in Nigeria’s quest to alleviate rural poverty, and it remains committed to working alongside the Nigerian Government in advancing agricultural value chains, fostering community-driven development initiatives, promoting profitable smallholder agri-businesses, strengthening rural institutions, and advancing financial inclusion for rural households.
During his visit, Dr. Brown engaged with key government officials, development partners, farmers, and private sector representatives, reaffirming IFAD’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s endeavors in food system transformation, enhancing livelihoods for smallholder farmers, and promoting inclusive industrialization.
