IFAD 49: Nigeria Pushes Youth, Women Investment to Tackle Hunger

By Julian Osamoto
Nigeria has called for increased global investment in youth and women as a strategic pathway to strengthen food systems, create jobs, and reduce hunger.

The call came at the 49th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council in Rome, which focused on the theme “From Farm to Market: Investing in Young Entrepreneurs.”

In a statement by Ezeaja Ikemefuna, Head, Department of Information says the session opened with the election of Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, as Chairperson of IFAD’s Governing Council. He previously served as Vice Chair.

Speaking after his election, Senator Kyari thanked member states for their confidence, pledging to serve “with humility, diligence, and an unwavering focus on rural women and men worldwide.”

Addressing delegates at the biennial meeting, the chairperson stressed that prioritising youth and women in agriculture is key to tackling hunger and poverty.

He said the focus aims “to unlock economic opportunities, drive innovation, and foster inclusive growth,” adding that it would ultimately strengthen food systems globally.

Kyari linked Nigeria’s role at IFAD to President Bola Tinubu’s national agenda, which places food security at the centre of government policy.

According to him, Nigeria’s stewardship aligns with efforts to boost agricultural productivity, expand opportunities for young people and women, and build systems capable of withstanding climate and market shocks.

The minister also commended the IFAD Nigeria Country Office, led by Country Director Dede Ekoue, for translating global commitments into results for rural communities.

He said the office’s work continues to strengthen agricultural value chains, empower women and youth, as well as build resilience among smallholder farmers.

Discussions at the session also highlighted the role of women farmers in food production, the need for water security, and investment in irrigation and climate-resilient infrastructure.

IFAD President Dr Álvaro Lario and African entrepreneur Tony Elumelu spoke on the role of young innovators in transforming rural economies.