The Nigerian government has highlighted the critical importance of prioritizing soil health and climate-smart agriculture to enhance the nation’s food and nutrition security.
Speaking at the 48th Annual Conference of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria (SSSN) held at the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja, Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized these priorities. The event, themed “Soil Health and Climate-Smart Agriculture for Resilient Food Security System,” gathered key stakeholders to discuss pressing agricultural issues.
Abdullahi stressed that soil health and climate-smart agriculture are essential for establishing a resilient food security system. He noted that maintaining soil health is foundational for sustainable agriculture, while climate-smart practices are necessary to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
“Addressing soil degradation and climate change is a fundamental challenge for sustainable agriculture,” Abdullahi stated. He referenced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s remarks at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he highlighted the various climate threats facing Nigeria, including desert encroachment in the north, coastal flooding and erosion in the south, and seasonal flooding in the Middle Belt.
The minister called for innovative knowledge, skills, techniques, and technology to tackle these challenges. He proposed solutions such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, agroforestry, reforestation, cultivating climate-resilient crops and livestock, and integrated pest and nutrient management.
Abdullahi also announced the promotion of the Nigeria Farmers’ Soil Health Card Scheme (NFSHCS) as a key intervention for sustainable agriculture. The NFSHCS aims to improve soil health and fertility, boost agricultural productivity and resilience, enhance food security and nutrition, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve livelihoods for small-scale farmers.
He emphasized the need for strong collaboration to ensure the success of this initiative, noting that a resilient food security system benefits everyone.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Olanipekun Oshadiya, Director of Agricultural Land and Climate Change Management Services, explained that the conference aimed to discuss soil health and climate change issues and their impact on agriculture, health, and the social well-being of citizens. He highlighted the importance of soil health in driving sustainable productivity growth in the agricultural sector.
Prof. Jibrin Mohammed Jibrin, President of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria (SSSN), described the conference as a landmark event, noting the significance of the society coming together after a long time. He praised the Ministry’s role in organizing the conference and addressing soil-related issues, particularly the inauguration of the soil health card scheme for sustainable agriculture.
A statement from the ministry’s Director of Information, Mrs. Anthonia Eremah, highlighted the event’s proceedings, including the presentation of a plaque to the minister. The conference saw participation from representatives of the World Bank, Agro-climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (Acresal), OCP Africa, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Indorama, and Soil Values, among others.
The government’s advocacy for soil health and climate-smart agriculture underscores the urgent need to tackle climate change and soil degradation challenges. Through strong collaboration and innovative practices, Nigeria aims to achieve a resilient and sustainable food security system.
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