The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, has said that strategic market systems will transform subsistence farming into profitable, competitive, and sustainable value chains, revolutionizing Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem.
Kyari made the disclosure on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Heifer International, led by its President and Chief Executive Officer, Surita Sandosham, in Abuja.
The minister explained that well-designed market systems connect smallholder farmers to higher-value markets, directly increasing their incomes and fostering resilience. He stressed that effective strategies encourage private sector investment in agricultural services, reduce reliance on aid, and create sustainable, self-reinforcing markets.
Kyari noted that digital platforms and better market information empower farmers to negotiate fairer prices, reducing exploitation by intermediaries. He identified market access, value addition, and strengthened linkages as primary drivers of competitiveness.
He cited examples such as Extension Africa, Pullus Africa, Nimsy Agro, Vet Konnect, and Thrive Agric, which have scaled agribusiness innovation and improved farmer access to services. He also commended Heifer International’s longstanding support for Nigeria’s agricultural development, including its collaboration with the Bank of Agriculture to deploy tractors and digital monitoring platforms for mechanization.
“Heifer International remains a valued partner in Nigeria’s agricultural journey. Your interventions have supported smallholder farmers, strengthened value chains, and improved rural livelihoods, aligning with our national priorities of building a resilient, productive, and inclusive agricultural sector,” Kyari said.
In her remarks, Sandosham reaffirmed Heifer International’s commitment to supporting two million Nigerian households in achieving sustainable living incomes by 2030. She emphasized the importance of harmonizing the National Digital Farmers’ Registry with the Ministry and IFAD, integrating geo-referencing and data mapping to ensure transparency in delivering inputs and services.
She highlighted successes in Edo State, where Heifer’s partnership with the state government and Amo Farm is integrating women and youth into the poultry sector through the In-Power Her project. “This model of market systems development proves that when public and private sectors align, we can create dignified, profitable jobs in rural communities,” she said.
By Ngozi Nwankwo, Abuja
