Nigeria has taken a significant step toward hosting one of Africa’s most important agricultural research gatherings, following a high-level engagement between the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
A delegation led by Oluwole Fatunbi paid a strategic courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, to advance preparations for the upcoming continental event.
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The visit follows the approval granted by Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Nigeria to host the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW9) alongside the 10th FARA General Assembly—two landmark events expected to convene leading scientists, policymakers, development partners, and private sector stakeholders across the continent.
As Nigeria’s representative on the FARA Board, the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) is spearheading national coordination efforts for the prestigious gathering, which is poised to position the country as a hub for agricultural innovation and climate-smart solutions in Africa.
During the meeting, Prof. Fatunbi outlined the mission plan, noting that the engagement marked the first official site visit in preparation for the event. He emphasized FARA’s commitment to working closely with Nigerian institutions to deliver a world-class science week that reflects Africa’s evolving agricultural priorities, particularly in the face of climate change and food insecurity.
Responding, Sen. Abdullahi reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to host the event successfully, assuring the delegation of the Ministry’s full backing. He highlighted that the themes of AASW9 align strongly with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially its focus on strengthening food security, boosting agricultural productivity, and promoting sustainable practices.
He further stressed that hosting the science week presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its agricultural research capacity, attract investment, and foster partnerships that can drive innovation across the value chain.
The Africa Agriculture Science Week is widely regarded as a premier platform for sharing cutting-edge research, shaping policy dialogue, and promoting collaboration aimed at transforming Africa’s agricultural systems. The upcoming edition is expected to focus on climate-resilient agriculture, digital innovation, and inclusive food systems.
With early preparations now underway, stakeholders say Nigeria’s hosting of AASW9 could mark a turning point in accelerating science-driven solutions to the continent’s pressing agricultural and climate challenges.
