By Agrobroadcast Team
The Federal Government has reiterated the strategic importance of agriculture to Nigeria’s economic stability, describing the sector as central to food security, employment generation and poverty reduction across the country.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, made the remark on Monday in Abuja during the ministry’s Annual Ministerial Reward and Recognition Ceremony, an event designed to honour staff members who have demonstrated excellence and dedication in advancing the nation’s agricultural agenda.
Speaking at the ceremony, themed “Nurturing Dedication, Growing Sustainable Agriculture,” Kyari said the initiative was aimed at recognising individuals whose commitment and innovative contributions have helped strengthen the ministry’s operations and support the growth of the agricultural sector.
According to the minister, sustainable agricultural development requires collective effort from farmers, researchers, policymakers and development partners who work daily to improve food production and ensure long-term sectoral growth.
He noted that Nigeria, like many countries, faces mounting challenges including climate change, food shortages and economic uncertainties, stressing that adopting sustainable farming practices is essential to overcoming these pressures.
Kyari explained that sustainable agriculture involves meeting present food needs while safeguarding the resources required for future generations, adding that the dedication shown by the award recipients reflects the resilience and determination needed to transform challenges into opportunities within the sector.
He urged staff and stakeholders to remain committed to excellence and innovation, saying their efforts are vital to building a stronger agricultural system capable of supporting national development.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, described the ceremony as an important platform for celebrating professionalism, diligence and outstanding service within the organisation.
Ogunbiyi emphasised that agriculture remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic development and plays a crucial role in ensuring food security, creating jobs and improving livelihoods for millions of citizens.
He added that the recognition initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing public service reforms, particularly the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP 25), which encourages a performance-based culture across government institutions.
In a goodwill message, Dr. Abdul Garba, Permanent Secretary of the Service Welfare Office in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, commended the ministry for promoting a culture of recognition among its workforce.
Represented by Mr. Agodi Emmanuel, Garba noted that acknowledging outstanding performance would boost morale, improve productivity and strengthen the ministry’s ability to deliver on its mandate.
Among those honoured at the event were Mr. Obasi Ikemefuna of the Federal Department of Agriculture, Dr. Christiana Malgwi from the Department of Extension Services and Mr. Pente Kelvin, alongside several other staff members.
Speaking on behalf of the award recipients, Mr. Ayodele Olawumi, Director of Extension Services, expressed appreciation to the ministry’s leadership for recognising their contributions.
He said the gesture would further inspire staff to intensify efforts toward achieving the ministry’s goal of ensuring food and nutrition security for Nigerians.