The Federal Government has called on African countries to take the lead in developing indigenous agricultural technologies to boost food security, improve productivity and drive sustainable economic growth across the continent.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, made the call on Monday while inaugurating the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW) and the 10th General Assembly of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) in Abuja.
Addressing delegates from across Africa and beyond, Kyari said the continent must shift from being a consumer of imported technologies to becoming a global hub for agricultural research and innovation.
He described knowledge as the most valuable agricultural resource of the 21st century, stressing that science, technology and innovation would determine Africa's ability to transform its agricultural sector and achieve lasting food security.
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The minister said the Tinubu administration has placed agriculture at the heart of its Renewed Hope Agenda through investments in irrigation, mechanisation, digital agriculture, agro-industrialisation and access to agricultural finance.
He noted that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, satellite applications, digital platforms and data science would redefine agriculture on the continent and challenged research institutions to focus on solutions that directly improve farmers' livelihoods, create jobs and strengthen resilience against climate change.
Kyari also expressed appreciation to the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) for selecting Nigeria to host the twin events, describing the gathering as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and chart a new course for agricultural transformation in Africa.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has opened a new chapter for Nigeria's livestock industry.
He said the government's National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy and Master Plan is designed to expand investments, modernise production systems and improve infrastructure and animal health.
Maiha urged private investors, researchers and development partners to explore opportunities across the livestock value chain, including production, processing, storage, logistics and veterinary services.
Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, said hosting the conference reflects Nigeria's commitment to advancing agricultural research, innovation and strategic partnerships across Africa.
He said collaboration and science-driven solutions remain essential to tackling food insecurity, climate change and low agricultural productivity on the continent.
Also speaking, Managing Director of AKADEMIYA 2063, Dr. Debisi Araba, said Africa has recorded progress under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) but still faces challenges, including inadequate financing, low technology adoption and weak institutional capacity.
Chairperson of the FARA Board of Directors, Ms. Bongiwe Njobe, described science and innovation as the foundation for achieving Africa's agricultural transformation goals and commended Nigeria for its commitment to implementing the Kampala Declaration.
Representing farmers across the continent, Chief Executive Officer of the Pan African Farmers' Organization (PAFO), Dr. Babafemi Oyewole, called for farmers to play a more active role in agricultural research, insisting they should be recognised as partners in innovation rather than mere beneficiaries.
The conference attracted government officials, policymakers, agricultural scientists, researchers, development partners and other stakeholders committed to advancing resilient and sustainable agrifood systems in Africa.