Features/Analysis
University Of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital Bringing Hope to Resident of Northeast Nigeria
University Of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital Bringing Hope to Resident of Northeast Nigeria
September 2021 will mark the third year of the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Professor Ahmed Ahidjo on the saddle as Chief Executive of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital UMTH.
He is not a man known for too much celebration amidst mounting problems considering the fact that he came in from the academic background as the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences. There is no department without its own problems but this piece which emanated from an interview with the CMD, and many others in the facility, spells out his doggedness in trying to fix the Kidney Center which like others has not enjoyed the best of times since the inception of the lingering insurgency.
The report was put together by Sam Kayode our Northern correspondent.
In the myriad of renal problems affecting the residents of Borno State, the commencement of the extension of the kidney Centre of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital UMTH marks a big milestone in the history of the North – East region of Nigeria.
All things being equal, the center should be ready to bring hope back into the lives of many patients before the end of this year and beyond.
BACKGROUND WITH INITIAL OBJECTIVES OF THE CENTER
Indeed, the current extension of the kidney Center of the UMTH is a big plus to the management led by Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, a consultant Interventional Radiologist. As a matter of fact, it is one of the greatest achievements that has ever happened in the history of the institution since its inception in July 1983. The advent of the lingering Insurgency into the North East region however has brought to the front burner the need for the current extension going on in the center. Many watchers on the development of the institution and stakeholders who spoke with this reporter on the development in the institution cannot wait to benefit from it.
It is an achievement to humanity says Professor Babatunde Omotara, a Don of Community Medicine who started his career in the hospital and witnessed the first transplant supported by some experts in UMTH and Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital OAUTH.
But its growth has not been very smooth from then because, from the eyes of other partners in the health sector like the Head of nursing in the facility, Innocent Mamza, enough attention has not been given to the training of
nurses with nephrological background over the decades which is why their number is negligible years after the first transplant.
He commends the center but warns that there are only sixteen nephrological nurses in the center now making it grossly inadequate. This is why it is heartwarming that the administration of Professor Ahidjo has come around to update the facilities in the institution including that of the kidney center that was almost running into a comatose state.
Before the assumption of Professor Ahidjo in September 2018, there were lots of setbacks in this center but it is obvious now that there is light at the end of the tunnel. It is expected that by the time the extension is completed, the synergy which Mamza is praying for between the partners in the sector will be enhanced and a bigger headway will be opened in the process of management of the sick.
Commenting on the extension, the coordinator of the center, Professor Ibrahim Ummate, a Nephrologist in an exclusive interview told this reporter that he has been waiting patiently for the completion of the physical structure so that vital equipment can come in.
With the completion of the physical structures, he expects a lot of collaboration with colleagues from all over the world during his tenure as Coordinator so he can implant his expertise on patients. He is also looking forward to transplants and researches which have been long overdue.
This reporter recalls that Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state had challenged the experts in the region to produce a practicable solution to the prevalence of kidney challenges in the region. By the time the funds for the research are released and the results start trickling in, there would be an urgent need for the setting up of an institute to train nurses who will complement the doctors in bringing succor to the people.
LIMITATIONS AND CHALLENGES OF THE KIDNEY CENTRE
Presently, the major challenge of the entire facility is a severe shortage of manpower and modern equipment for operations. And this was occasioned by the massive exodus of trained personnel in the last decade of insurgency as regretted by the Chairman Medical Advisory committee CMAC Prof Mala Bukar Sandabe in one of our chats with him.
Sandabe who is also a problem solver believes that this matter can be sorted out as soon as the new extension comes on stream. The center has two Nephrologists, three Urologists, and Resident doctors ready to take it beyond just dialysis and some tests which are carried on in the side laboratories. There is also a workshop for engineering technologies that supports the sophistication of dialysis machines. Repairs of the machines are done locally now to keep the service going and to avoid regular invitations of the manufacturers when they malfunction.
However, to transit from this present status of needs to the expectations of transplant centers, there is a dire need to increase these consultant specialists to stand up to the daily challenges that go with such a modern center, said Professor Ummate. This is a lacuna that must be handled by the management team led by Ahidjo and supported by CMAC Professor Sandabe.
With the present financial stress, the Hospital is going through, spiced with choking insurgency which has led to a lack of electricity to power these machines it’s obvious that management needs quite a lot of support from its proprietor, the Federal Government. To ensure that lack of electricity does not continue to act as a clog in the wheel of progress, they are spending as much as Ten Million Naira on diesel on a weekly basis to keep services going on serving the very humanity it was meant for.
MOVES TO OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES IN THE CENTRE
These are trying times indeed says Professor Bashir Tahir, Deputy Provost of the College of Medicine, a former CMAC who is now involved in training doctors. No matter how many they train yearly as long as there is insurgency, most of them move out to greener pastures. And that affects the center badly too.
For Prof Ahidjo, this project should be commissioned today and Nigerians should begin to benefit from the structure since he is a man who seems to be running faster than his generation noted one of his nurses in the facility who took this reporter round the old structure. As a matter of fact, this is just one of the myriads of structures that Ahidjo has been able to use his influence also to bring into existence in the UMTH Community since he assumed duty.
The CMD has shown from the first day he stepped into the institution’s Chief Manager’s seat that he had one mission, and that was to move this tertiary facility to the next level in terms of infrastructural developments. A feat, sources say he must have inherited from his father who was a mortgage businessman. Before the CMD, the facility had suffered from almost thirty years of infrastructural deficit. Indeed, the UMTH which has been involved in several kidney management issues such as dialysis with only thirteen functional machines left out of an initial eighteen will soon join the league of big tertiary facilities involved in kidney transplants.
EXTENSION OF THE CENTRE
The extension of the center has been seen as a blessing not only for the staff like the Head of Department Professor Ummate whose office looks like a makeshift facility to get more space to operate with staff and residents. It’s a leeway to bring increased professionalism in the current training going on in the facility.
Also commenting on the extension further, Professor Omotara concerned about the prevalence of kidney complications particularly in the entire Borno community described the introduction of the extension of the kidney center this way: “The kidney Centre is the first in the northeast region. The purpose of its existence was to provide treatment for patients with kidney disease to reduce its prevalence and severity.
The first kidney transplant was carried out at the center over a decade ago. The new extension will help to improve services and increase the number of patients that would benefit from the services.” It is also expected that the contractors who would be involved with the sale of drugs and components for dialysis would be much more comfortable and organized in serving the people. Patients will come directly to the center as a one-stop shopping port and leave satisfied.
Although the consultant engineer to the project could not be seen on-site during the visit of this reporter, a physical examination of the building shows that it has been roofed and windows space created. The building is plastered and is almost completed.
When completed, the center will have eighty-four-bed spaces, two adult female and male Nephrology wards, a sludge and sterilization center, scrub area, nursing section, adult and Pediatrics (consisting of male and female Urology and Nephrology) wards, conference room, library, a massive records section, and an impressive reception. Others will include counselor’s office and waiting room, several offices for medical workers, two big theatres for advanced operations.
The dream of the Kidney Center Extension was actualized as a result of efforts made by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume representing Southern Borno and Chairman House Committee on Army. We gathered that in the past he assisted the hospital with many other projects.
EQUIPPING THE CENTRE
The building when completed will house sophisticated equipment worth N750m from TET fund obtained through the assistance of Kashim Imam. It is also believed that kidney treatments handled by the surgery unit of the hospital already would be more improved with the new equipment supplied by the efforts of Alhaji Kashim Imam, who is the chair of the TET fund.
Kidney stones with a high prevalence here would soon be nipped in the bud because several researches would be launched to investigate further the intricacies of this vital body organ. Some of the equipment that are already waiting to be installed are 100 watts Lithotripsy laser machine, a complete set of Upper and Lower Endoscopic equipment, -86 degrees centigrade freezer, four fully equipped Operating Theaters 2 of which are for transplant, basic diagnostic laboratory including a chemistry analyzer, a fully equipped HLA typing laboratory, consumables, etc. Professor Ibrahim Ummate who is very happy that Alhaji Kashim Imam, a Borno son has contributed to the equipping of the Kidney Center.
TRAINING OF STAFF IN THE CENTRE
On the training of doctors, head of center Ummate said that the exercise is ongoing.
“We have a consultant that has been trained here too. His name is Dr. Suleiman Mohammed Maina. We have two senior registrars currently training under us. Their names are; Dr. Umar Loskurima and Dr.Mustapha Lawan. There is no serious challenge with the training of doctors.” He posited. On the training of desperately needed nurses to complement the extension, he went on: “We have trained nurses that are currently rendering services in Federal Medical Centre Yola,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital Bauchi, State Specialist Hospital Maiduguri and Federal Medical Centre Nguru. We will continue to train nurses that will render service to us and other centers in need.” He assured.
Read Also: Over 50 pastors, members reacts to demolition of EYN Church in Maiduguri
The head of Center, however, regretted that the challenges they are facing with the training of nurses is getting accreditation from the nursing council which he maintained will be pursued in due course. It is the accreditation that would enable UMTH to join the league of Teaching Hospitals already with an accredited institute on Nephrology.
“The only kano, Abuja and Lagos have such full-fledged accredited one-year training institutes for nurses in the country as at present.” Noted one of the staff of the center stressing that it is high time management fights for the desired accreditation for Maiduguri to join the list. “Despite that, we are still training our nurses in-house. We
have competent hands to train nurses. Biomedical Engineers in our center also train our technicians in-house. They are also competent.” He stressed.
The Chief Medical Director informed us that the Extension and Equipping of the Kidney Center come along with training of staff both within and outside the country.
MOUNTING KIDNEY PROBLEMS IN BORNO AND NORTH-EAST NIGERIA
The extension of this facility is coming at a time when kidney complication issues have become a major challenge of the people of the northeast corner of Nigeria. In as much as kidney dialysis is about 30,000 naira per session averagely in the region and a patient with a failed kidney may need treatment about three times a week, it is high time the preventive therapeutic emphasis is placed on the front burner so that a lot of people do not have to go through that path before they lose their lives ultimately due of lack of a compatible
kidney to bring them back to normal life.
KIDNEY TRANSPLANT SUPPORT FUNDS
Professor Ummate noted that other centers have a pool of support through one foundation or the other but they do not have it in UMTH. He hopes equally that they do get access to funds from philanthropists to be able to support residents who cannot afford the cost yet need the services. Such a facility, if approved, would be known as a Kidney transplant support fund. And it would be another first for UMTH and the North East region of Nigeria.
Features/Analysis
Kashim Shettima: The Imperative of Agricultural Revitalization and the Case for the Niger Delta’s Agrarian Future
Kashim Shettima: The Imperative of Agricultural Revitalization and the Case for the Niger Delta’s Agrarian Future
By: Dr. James Bwala
The Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has declared open the Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit, co-convened by his office and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). This event marks a decisive step toward rekindling the agricultural heritage of the Niger Delta, anchored by the launch of the $500 million Niger Delta Agricultural Investment Fund.
Kashim Shettima’s eloquent remarks as they reverberated through the crowd pointed out that while nations rely on a variety of resources, their endurance hinges on their capacity to feed themselves. His assertion that agriculture serves as both the foundation of civilization and the foremost guarantor of political stability forms a compelling argument for an urgent and strategic investment in this sector.
The call for agricultural revitalization in the Niger Delta, emphasizing its critical role in national stability, economic diversification, and sustainable development, speaks volumes of the impact of the Tinubu and Kashim Shettima administrations in this sector. The VP’s message can better be appreciated through the lens of history and economic identity. Prior to the discovery of oil, Nigeria’s economy was fundamentally agrarian. The fertile soils of regions like the Niger Delta were the backbone of local livelihoods and a vital source of revenue. Agriculture provided employment for the majority and supplied food both for domestic consumption and export. Yet, decades of oil dominance have shifted national focus and investment away from agriculture to the detriment of the sector and overall economic resilience.
This shift has had profound consequences. Dependency on oil exports has rendered Nigeria vulnerable to volatile global oil prices and external shocks, leading to economic instability. Adding to this is the neglect of agriculture. This has exacerbated rural poverty, especially in the Niger Delta regions, where environmental degradation and limited economic diversification have compounded socio-economic challenges. The vice president’s emphasis on reinvigorating agriculture is therefore not only a nod to history but also an urgent strategy to reclaim sustainability and inclusive prosperity.
One of the most persuasive points made by Vice President Shettima is the intrinsic link between agriculture and political stability. Agriculture provides food security, which is foundational to societal peace. When a nation struggles to feed its population, social unrest, economic disparity, and political volatility often follow. In contrast, countries that maintain a robust agricultural base tend to enjoy greater internal peace and cohesion because their citizens’ basic needs Countries with a strong agricultural base tend to experience greater internal peace and cohesion, as they meet their citizens’ basic needs..
In the context of the Niger Delta, a region that has experienced significant unrest and militancy largely due to economic marginalization and environmental degradation, leveraging agriculture can act as a transformative stabilizing force. By creating jobs, improving incomes, and enhancing food self-sufficiency, agricultural development can reduce desperation and conflict drivers. It offers a tangible pathway for empowerment and reconciliation, fostering a positive cycle of peace and progress.
Shettima pointed out that Nigeria’s over-reliance on oil is widely recognized as a central challenge to long-term economic sustainability. The global energy transition and fluctuating oil markets make diversification imperative. Agriculture, with its extensive value chains spanning production, processing, marketing, and export, presents a promising avenue for economic diversification.
The $500 million Niger Delta Agricultural Investment Fund represents a bold commitment to capitalize on the region’s natural endowments. Strategic investment in modern farming techniques, infrastructure, agribusiness, and market access will unlock vast opportunities. It will stimulate rural economies, expand the industrial base, and create resilience against external shocks. Moreover, integrating agriculture with technology and innovation can position Nigeria as a competitive player in global agricultural markets.
The Niger Delta has suffered ecological harm from decades of oil exploration, including pollution and land degradation. These environmental issues have compromised agricultural productivity and public health. Consequently, a renewed agricultural focus must also embrace environmental restoration and climate adaptation strategies.
Investing in sustainable farming methods, soil rehabilitation, and water management will restore the land’s fertility and mitigate adverse environmental impacts. Furthermore, agriculture can play a vital role in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. Thus, the agricultural revitalization agenda aligns with Nigeria’s broader commitments to environmental stewardship and sustainable development goals.
For the vision articulated by Vice President Shettima to materialize, coordinated action and steadfast commitment from all stakeholders are indispensable. The government must provide enabling policies, facilitate access to finance, improve rural infrastructure, and support farmer education and research. Equally, private sector participation and community engagement will be critical in ensuring the fund translates into meaningful ground-level outcomes.
Public-private partnerships can accelerate technology transfer and market integration, while local communities’ involvement ensures culturally sensitive and inclusive development practices. Transparency and accountability in fund management will safeguard the initiative’s efficacy and public trust.
The Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit, and the historic launch of the $500 million Agricultural Investment Fund, represent a moment in Nigeria’s quest for sustainable development. Vice President Kashim Shettima’s insightful declaration highlights the unassailable importance of agriculture as the bedrock of civilization, political stability, and economic resilience. For a nation whose foundations were rooted in agrarian prosperity before oil, the time to rekindle that legacy is now.
The Niger Delta, endowed with rich soils and a hardworking populace, can lead Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance. Through deliberate investment, environmental restoration, and strategic partnerships, the region can emerge stronger, more stable, and more prosperous. Embracing agriculture not as a fallback but as a frontline driver of national progress is not merely an option—it is an imperative for the enduring well-being of Nigeria and its people. The Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit symbolizes hope and determination, signaling that Nigeria will no longer take its agricultural promise for granted but will harness it fully to feed its future.
James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Kashim Shettima: The Imperative of Agricultural Revitalization and the Case for the Niger Delta’s Agrarian Future
Features/Analysis
IFAD: When Kyari speaks of President Tinubu’s continued support for agriculture and food security in Nigeria
IFAD: When Kyari speaks of President Tinubu’s continued support for agriculture and food security in Nigeria
By: Dr. James Bwala
At the 49th session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Nigeria’s Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, delivered a powerful closing statement that underscored the crucial role of agriculture in Nigeria’s socioeconomic landscape. His remarks not only highlighted the ongoing support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu but also made a persuasive case for the importance of an unwavering commitment to food security and agricultural transformation. Indeed, Kyari’s endorsement of President Tinubu’s agricultural policies reflects a broader vision for Nigeria’s development and why such support is vital for both national prosperity and global food security.
Senator Kyari opened his statement with a note of gratitude for being elected as the chairperson of IFAD, an organization that plays a pivotal role in enhancing food security and agricultural development across the globe. This acknowledgment was not just a formality—it set the tone for what would follow. While expressing appreciation for President Tinubu’s steadfast dedication to agriculture, Kyari positioned the Nigerian leadership as progressive and forward-thinking in a time when the world grapples with pressing issues of food scarcity, climate change, and economic instability.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/
Sen. Kyari said the importance of food security cannot be overstated. Noting that it is the bedrock of societal stability and economic growth. Indeed, in Nigeria, a country that relies heavily on agriculture, it is imperative that government leaders prioritize initiatives that bolster food production and ensure that every citizen has access to nutritious food. Senator Kyari emphasized that President Tinubu’s policies are oriented towards achieving this goal, which speaks volumes about the administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of the population. When leaders demonstrate a resolute focus on agricultural reforms, they ignite hope and inspire confidence among the citizens, particularly in rural areas where livelihoods largely depend on farming.
Sen. Kyari articulated a vision for agricultural transformation that extends beyond mere rhetoric; it encompasses actionable frameworks and policies aimed at improving productivity, supporting farmers, and building sustainable supply chains. The senator’s acknowledgment of rural communities—specifically mentioning both women and men—reflects an understanding of the integral role that gender equity plays in agricultural development. While he includes both demographics in his remarks, Kyari reinforces the notion that empowering women farmers and entrepreneurs is essential for achieving comprehensive food security. Indeed, studies consistently show that when women have equal access to resources, education, and decision-making processes in agriculture, communities thrive.
It is worth noting that the transformative efforts in agriculture are not solely a domestic issue but resonate on a global scale. As nations confront interconnected challenges like food insecurity, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, cooperative engagement becomes paramount. Senator Kyari’s emphasis on Nigeria’s constructive participation in global food security governance illustrates the need for countries to collaborate and share best practices to create resilient agricultural systems. Kyari noted that in a world where food supplies can be disrupted by unpredictable climate patterns and trade conflicts, having strong national policies in place can support international stability.
He states that President Tinubu’s administration is entering a phase marked by increased investment in agricultural infrastructure, research and development, and farmer support programs. His statement serves to reinforce this narrative and catalyze further discussions around resource allocation for agriculture. For instance, improving irrigation systems, providing better access to credit, and enhancing extension services are critical steps that can transform the sector. These initiatives not only secure food sources but also stimulate economic growth through job creation and increased agricultural exports.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/
Sen. Kyari’s leadership at the IFAD sends a message of Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with other countries in tackling shared challenges. As global food demands rise, the ability to contribute to and shape international dialogues on agriculture becomes vital. Nigeria stands at a crucial intersection, where its actions can influence broader trends in agricultural policy and food security efforts worldwide. The senator’s humility, expressed in acknowledging his responsibilities toward rural communities, hints at a collaborative spirit that prioritizes dialogue and partnership over isolationism.
In discussing the support from President Tinubu, Kyari highlighted that such endorsement is not just symbolic; it translates into real changes on the ground. The current administration recognizes that modernizing agriculture requires holistic approaches that integrate technology, sustainability, and community engagement. This includes investing in agricultural research institutions, promoting innovative farming techniques, and harnessing technology to enhance yield and efficiency.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/
As the global community looks toward sustainable development goals, Nigeria’s agricultural agenda must align with these aspirations. The zero hunger goal, for example, emphasizes that food should be available, accessible, and nutritious for all individuals. Kyari’s reiteration of President Tinubu’s support for agriculture thus positions Nigeria as a proactive partner in the global mission to eradicate hunger. This vision must be backed by strategic planning and effective implementation to ensure that the promises made resonate in the lives of Nigerians, especially those in the most vulnerable communities.
The minister’s remarks signify an essential reorientation towards climate-smart agriculture. As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, traditional farming practices may no longer suffice. Therefore, adopting strategies that promote resilience—such as diversifying crops, utilizing drought-resistant seeds, and implementing sustainable land management practices—is crucial. Sen. Kyari’s acceptance of the chairmanship at IFAD reflects an understanding of these complexities, establishing a platform where Nigeria can advocate for adaptive measures suited to its unique environment.
Indeed, Senator Abubakar Kyari’s address at the 49th session of IFAD effectively conveyed the significance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support for agricultural initiatives in Nigeria. This backing is not merely political; it represents a strategic thrust towards addressing food security, supporting rural livelihoods, and participating actively in global conversations about agriculture.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/
As Nigeria navigates its path toward agricultural transformation, the leadership’s commitment paves the way for sustainable development that uplifts communities, empowers individuals, and ultimately contributes to a more secure and stable global food system. With collaborative efforts at the national and international levels, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a key player in shaping the future of agriculture and food security, fostering a safer and more equitable world for all.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
IFAD: When Kyari speaks of President Tinubu’s continued support for agriculture and food security in Nigeria
Features/Analysis
Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari: A Strategic Leadership for Global Agricultural Governance
Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari: A Strategic Leadership for Global Agricultural Governance
By: Dr. James Bwala
On February 10, 2026, during the 49th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Governing Council Meeting in Rome, Italy, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, CON, ascended to the prestigious role of Chairperson of the Governing Council of IFAD. This appointment marks a significant moment not only in Sen. Kyari’s career but also symbolically represents Nigeria’s emerging prominence on the global agricultural stage. His election can be interpreted as a reflection of both personal merit and broader geopolitical shifts within agricultural governance, particularly concerning food security and rural poverty alleviation.
The International Fund for Agricultural Development, a specialized agency of the United Nations, is dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and strengthening food systems worldwide through targeted investments and partnerships. With the world grappling with unprecedented challenges such as climate change, economic instability, conflict, and demographic shifts, the need for effective leadership in agricultural governance has never been more urgent. Sen. Kyari’s previous experience as vice chair of the governing council positions him uniquely to leverage his understanding of IFAD’s operational framework to foster innovative solutions that address these pressing issues.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/distinguished-senator-abubakar-kyari-a-leader-in-his-season/
Sen. Kyari, upon accepting his new responsibility, expressed a commitment to lead with humility, fairness, inclusiveness, and strategic foresight. He emphasized the importance of consensus-building and maintaining the integrity of IFAD. This foundational philosophy is pivotal, especially in a time when global agricultural policies are often polarized and contentious. His approach underscores that effective leadership must prioritize collaboration over division, which is essential for developing comprehensive strategies tailored to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing the agricultural sector today.
The minister acknowledged the backing of key figures within Nigeria’s agricultural hierarchy, including the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON, and the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, FNSE. Such collaborative leadership is vital for advancing Nigeria’s agenda on food security, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This agenda not only emphasizes agricultural transformation but also seeks to strengthen domestic reforms that enhance Nigeria’s position in global food security governance. Consequently, Sen. Kyari’s election as chairperson is an endorsement of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to elevate its voice in critical international dialogues about food systems and sustainability.
In the current climate of adversity—characterized by climate variability, fluctuating market prices, and geopolitical tensions—the appointment of an African leader to such a significant role at IFAD is both timely and necessary. Sen. Kyari’s election reflects a growing recognition of Africa’s capacity to lead conversations on agricultural governance, especially given the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities. His leadership could pave the way for innovative, region-specific solutions that prioritize resilience and inclusivity, addressing not just food security but also the economic empowerment of rural communities.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/distinguished-senator-abubakar-kyari-a-leader-in-his-season/
As Senator Abubakar Kyari begins his tenure, he faces the dual challenge and opportunity of steering the IFAD towards policies that are both policy-driven and impact-focused. The imperative for responsive agricultural policies has never been more pronounced, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which unmasked vulnerabilities in food systems worldwide. Approaches that champion inclusive growth opportunities for marginalized populations can work harmoniously with sustainable development goals, creating a blueprint for a robust agricultural future.
The newly elected Chairperson has asserted his intention to work diligently with Member States to advance rural transformation and global food security. This vision aligns impeccably with the creation of resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding shocks, ensuring continuity in food supply chains, and safeguarding against the adverse effects of changing climatic conditions. His commitment to fostering forward-thinking policies, underpinned by research and innovation, will undoubtedly inspire stakeholders to collaborate in developing initiatives that bolster agricultural productivity, empower farmers, and ultimately contribute to poverty reduction.
Additionally, it is essential to focus on the long-term implications of Sen. Kyari’s role at IFAD on Nigeria and the broader African continent. His election could catalyze increased investment and attention towards African agricultural practices, empowering local farmers and enhancing agricultural research and development. By championing initiatives that embrace technology and innovation, such as smart agriculture and sustainable practices, this leadership can usher in a new era for African agriculture—one that is resilient, competitive, and recognized on the global stage.
The integration of environmentally sustainable practices into agricultural initiatives will be another crucial area of focus for Senator Abubakar Kyari. Climate change presents a formidable challenge to food security, and agricultural policies must evolve to mitigate these risks. The introduction of agro-ecological practices, investment in renewable energies within the agricultural sector, and promoting biodiversity could become central tenets of his strategy. By prioritizing sustainability, Senator Kyari can lead IFAD into a future where agricultural productivity does not compromise the health of ecosystems or the livelihoods of future generations.
Furthermore, the current global economic climate, marked by unpredictability, necessitates a profound reevaluation of traditional agricultural practices. The volatility caused by internal conflicts, trade disputes, and supply chain disruptions demands agile and adaptive strategies. Under Senator Abubakar Kyari’s guidance, IFAD can pivot towards building frameworks that enhance food sovereignty, engage local communities in decision-making processes, and promote regional cooperation among member states. Such efforts are critical in developing agricultural sectors that are self-sufficient and resilient to external shocks.
Senator Abubakar Kyari’s presence at the helm of IFAD serves as a beacon of hope for millions affected by rural poverty. His leadership promises to amplify the voices of those often overlooked in agricultural discussions—smallholder farmers, women, and youth—ensuring their needs and aspirations are prioritized in policy frameworks. Inclusion is not just a moral imperative; it is fundamental to crafting policies that yield tangible results and foster sustainable development.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/distinguished-senator-abubakar-kyari-a-leader-in-his-season/
Indeed, Senator Abubakar Kyari’s election as Chairperson of the Governing Council of IFAD presents a watershed moment for Nigeria and Africa at large. His leadership embodies a strategic shift towards inclusive and sustainable agricultural governance amidst evolving global challenges. With a commitment to fairness, consensus-building, and visionary policy-making, Senator Kyari stands poised to steer IFAD toward impactful initiatives that address the pressing realities of food security and rural transformation. As Nigeria continues to assert itself on the global stage, Kyari’s tenure represents an opportunity not only for national progress but also for redefining agricultural pathways across the African continent and beyond.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari: A Strategic Leadership for Global Agricultural Governance
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