The Federal Government has launched a new climate-smart agriculture initiative aimed at helping Nigerian farmers adapt to climate change, boost food production and strengthen food security.
The project, known as the Climate-Smart Agribusiness Partnership for Resilience, is being implemented in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Programme and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet.
Launching the initiative in Abuja, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, described it as a major step towards building a more productive and climate-resilient agricultural sector.
He said the project will provide farmers with reliable climate information, improve access to financing and promote stronger collaboration between government, development partners and the private sector.
Director General, NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, said timely and accurate weather forecasts are essential for helping farmers make informed decisions, reduce climate risks and improve productivity.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing seasonal climate predictions, early warning advisories and digital weather information to support farmers across the country.
IFAD Country Director, Mr. Dede Ekoue, said the initiative will strengthen public-private partnerships and help farmers and agribusinesses better withstand the impacts of climate change.
The project, funded by the Gates Foundation, has already recorded early successes with the installation of automated weather stations in Ogun and Kano States and the rollout of digital weather advisory services for farmers.
It is expected to improve resilience, increase agricultural productivity and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers nationwide.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen