Photo credit: Onilogbo Omobolanle/IFPRI
On January 25-26, 2024, the International Food Policy Institute (IFPRI) participated in the Strategic Training on Potentials of Agricultural Policies in Developing Countries for Chief Executives of National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) and Farming Cooperative Associations (FCAs) and a day-two Reform Workshop. The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) organized and facilitated the training, hosted at their office in Abuja. The event aimed to equip leaders with knowledge to propel national development through innovative agricultural policies, and it featured critical discussions led by field experts.
The session opened with ARCN Executive Secretary Prof. Garba Hamidu Sharubutu delivering the opening remarks, setting the stage for an engaging and enlightening program. Dr. Nyako A. Nurudeen, MD/CEO of AGRI Solution Ltd, delivered inspiring goodwill messages, emphasizing the pivotal role of agricultural policies in shaping the future of developing nations. Adams Peter Eloyi, Founder of YPAED Coop. Soc. Ltd., and Lanre Ayoola, Executive Chairman of IT Africa Networks Ltd., echoed sentiments of optimism, underscoring the importance of collaboration and innovation in the agricultural sector.
Kwaw Andam, IFPRI Country Program Leader and Nigeria Lead for the National Policies and Strategies (NPS) initiative, presented the potentials of the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP) and outlined the roles that ARCN and other institutions can play in stimulating national development through contributions to the new food security agenda of the Government of Nigeria. He emphasized that ARCN, through collaborative research on the NATIP cross-cutting areas such as nutrition, access to quality agricultural inputs, sustainable use of agricultural land and water resources, and gender in agriculture, can provide evidence to influence the policy direction in agriculture, and train and support analysts. The subsequent question and answer session provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, experience sharing, and knowledge exchange.
Photo credit: Onilogbo Omobolanle/IFPRI
An insightful presentation by Brains & Hammers showcased innovative solutions, providing participants with a glimpse into cutting-edge technologies and practices shaping the future of agriculture. Tanimu Ibrahim, Director of Planning and Policy Coordination at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, also contributed, delving into the intricacies of the NATIP, shedding light on its components and strategic objectives.
Manson Nwafor, from the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), shared valuable lessons learned from agricultural policies and their impacts on food systems in developing countries in the next presentation. The session served as a reflection on global experiences, enriching participants' understanding of the broader context of agricultural policymaking.
The day two event featured a keynote message from Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Honorable Minister of State, FMAFS. He emphasized the imperative of enhancing local research institutions such as ARCN. His vision aligned with the workshop's objectives, focusing on bridging gaps, strengthening systems, and aligning with international standards.
The training took a holistic approach, delving into the curriculum review by the Director of Curriculum Development at the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). This discussion aimed to align training programs with emerging trends and challenges in agricultural policy.
The Strategic Training on Potentials of Agricultural Policies in Developing Countries served as a milestone in fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation within the agricultural landscape. It actively engaged participants, providing them with the tools and insights needed to drive impactful agricultural policies and contribute to national development.
