FG Seeks BRICS Support to Transform Nigeria’s Agriculture

News in Brief:

—Nigeria has called for deeper collaboration with BRICS nations to strengthen food security, agribusiness and agricultural value chains.

—The government is promoting Special Agro-Processing Zones and partnerships in technology, trade and investment to expand the sector.

The Federal Government has intensified discussions with BRICS member countries as part of efforts to increase agricultural output, attract investment and strengthen trade relationships within the global bloc.

Speaking at the ongoing BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Conference in India, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, called for increased international collaboration to tackle food security challenges and unlock opportunities across Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Nigeria Positions Agriculture as Key Driver of Economic Growth

Kyari described Nigeria as Africa’s largest agribusiness market, highlighting the country’s potential to become a major destination for agricultural investment and innovation.

He noted that Nigeria is already strengthening partnerships with BRICS members, including Brazil and India, to improve food production systems and develop stronger agricultural value chains.

The minister encouraged investors within the bloc to explore opportunities in Nigeria, citing the country’s extensive arable land and strategic access to the wider African market.

Government Promotes Agro-Processing Zones to Attract Investment

The Federal Government is prioritising the expansion of Special Agro-Processing Zones across the country as part of its strategy to modernise agriculture and encourage private sector participation.

The initiative is designed to improve processing capacity, reduce post-harvest losses and create new opportunities for farmers, businesses and investors.

Kyari said Nigeria’s agricultural reforms are centred on building a system that supports farmers while improving productivity and competitiveness.

Focus on Farmers, Women and Young People

The minister stressed that sustainable agricultural growth must prioritise the needs of smallholder farmers, women and young people who play critical roles in food production.

He said empowering farmers with resources, technology and market access remains essential to achieving long-term food security.

According to him, strengthening farmers' capacity will help secure Nigeria’s future food supply and promote inclusive growth within the agricultural sector.

Nigeria, India Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation

During a separate bilateral meeting with India’s Agriculture Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Kyari reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding agricultural cooperation between both countries.

The discussions focused on increasing collaboration in agricultural technology, crop production and trade in key commodities.

The Federal Government said stronger partnerships with BRICS countries would support its broader agenda of transforming agriculture into a more productive, investment-driven sector capable of contributing significantly to economic development.