Nigeria’s Agric Min. Kyari Emerges Chair of IFAD 49th Council

News in brief:

-Kyari appointed Chairman of IFAD’s 49th Governing Council, strengthening Nigeria’s voice in global agricultural policy.

-He pledged inclusive, consensus-driven leadership to advance rural resilience and sustainable food systems.

Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has been appointed Chairman of the 49th Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) at its session in Rome, Italy.

The appointment places Nigeria at the helm of the Fund's decision-making body, responsible for shaping policy direction, safeguarding financial integrity and guiding global rural transformation initiatives.

Pledge to Strengthen Rural Transformation Agenda

In his acceptance speech, Kyari committed to impartial, inclusive and strategically focused leadership aimed at fostering consensus and deepening multilateral cooperation.

He described the mandate as a solemn obligation to millions of rural women and men whose livelihoods depend on decisions taken at the global level.

Kyari noted that global food systems are under significant strain from climate shocks, economic volatility, conflict and demographic pressures. He assured member states that collective determination would accelerate innovation, strengthen partnerships and ensure that no rural community is left behind.

He emphasised the need for forward-looking policies that empower smallholder farmers, enhance resilience, unlock rural enterprise and secure sustainable food systems for future generations.

Reinforcing IFAD’s Governance Responsibilities

The minister reaffirmed his commitment to IFAD’s mandate of delivering measurable and transformative outcomes for smallholder farmers, rural youth, women and vulnerable communities across continents.

He highlighted the Governing Council’s core responsibilities, including shaping policies for rural transformation, safeguarding institutional finances, appointing leadership, admitting new members and approving strategic directions that define IFAD’s global impact.

According to him, these responsibilities demand unity of purpose, disciplined engagement and strong conviction from all member states.

Nigeria’s Agricultural Diplomacy on Global Stage

Kyari commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for positioning Nigeria as a committed advocate of global development cooperation through agricultural reform and food security initiatives.

He also acknowledged the support of Vice President Kashim Shettima, members of the Federal Executive Council, the National Economic Council and the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

The minister praised outgoing IFAD Chairman Christophe Schiltz for his stewardship, noting that his leadership strengthened the Council at a critical time for global food systems. He equally recognised IFAD President Álvaro Lario, Vice President Gerardine Mukeshimana, Secretary Dr Claudia Ten and the institution’s senior management for their professionalism and dedication.

Implications for Nigeria and Global Food Systems

Kyari’s emergence as Chair is viewed as a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to amplify its influence in global agricultural governance, particularly at a time when climate resilience, rural employment and food security dominate international policy discourse.

For Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the development underscores the country’s expanding role in multilateral institutions focused on financing rural development, strengthening value chains and improving smallholder productivity worldwide.