The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, has launched a consultative forum to review the National Gender Policy in Agriculture and its Strategic Plan of Action (2025–2030).
The forum, held on Tuesday in Lafia, brought together key stakeholders including government officials, civil society groups, women farmers’ associations, youth networks, and development partners.
The event, supported by AGRA, GIZ, and Care International, focused on strengthening inclusivity in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Speaking at the session, Kachalla Damaturu, Director of Special Duties at the Ministry, stated that the review would ensure that women, youths, and persons with disabilities play a central role in shaping agricultural policy.
She explained that the meeting aimed to align grassroots voices with the national agricultural agenda.
“We gather today to build on the momentum from the maiden review in Abuja. This process will promote gender inclusivity and equality in agriculture, ensuring no group is left behind,” Damaturu said.
ActionAid Nigeria’s Food and Agriculture Programme Advisor, Blessing Akhile, stressed that the policy is key to building equity, boosting productivity, and strengthening resilience in food systems.
She noted that since its adoption in 2019, the gender policy has advanced access to resources and opportunities for smallholder farmers, but emerging challenges require urgent updates.
AGRA Nigeria’s Programme Officer, Esther Ibrahim, also highlighted the importance of inclusivity, noting that most smallholder farmers in Africa are women and youths.
She described the review as “a vital step toward dismantling barriers that limit participation and building a more sustainable agricultural sector.”
The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Agriculture, Tanko Tunga, represented by Zachariah Christopher, urged participants to discuss practical strategies that would boost Nigeria’s agricultural growth.
The National Gender Policy in Agriculture, adopted in October 2019, was designed to address gaps in land access, financing, extension services, and decision-making.
The new 2025–2030 strategic plan seeks to consolidate achievements while tackling new challenges in food security, productivity, and inclusive growth.
Source: Punch
Image Credit: Action Aid Nigeria
