FG Targets Inclusive Growth with Revised Agrifood Gender Roadmap

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

The Federal Government has officially launched the National Gender Policy in Agrifood Systems and its accompanying Strategic Action Plan (2025–2030).

This revised framework is designed to dismantle long-standing disparities and foster a more inclusive environment within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

At the launch event in Abuja—supported by ActionAid Nigeria—the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, emphasized that the policy is a cornerstone of the government’s drive for a sustainable and productive food system.

While acknowledging that agriculture is the primary engine for Nigeria’s food security and economic stability, the Minister highlighted a critical imbalance –
Women make up a massive portion of the agricultural workforce and they remain sidelined by limited access to land ownership, credit facilities, modern technology, and essential farming resources.

He added that he was also conveying the position of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, noting that the ministry under the Renewed Hope administration fully supports the framework.

“This policy is designed to bring focus on how we support women to achieve agricultural transformation. It removes the controversies around gender inclusion in the sector,” he said.

He added that implementation of earlier gender frameworks had already begun, with the revised policy strengthening ongoing reforms and expanding inclusion across programmes.

Abdullahi further stressed the need for stronger coordination, accountability and targeted interventions to translate policy into action.

He highlighted ongoing efforts to deepen gender responsive frameworks in agribusiness, particularly for women and youth inclusion.

Abdullahi commended development partners including ActionAid Nigeria, AGRA, GIZ, and others for their contributions to the policy process.

The Minister of State also formally declared the policy launched, describing it as a practical framework for ensuring equitable access to resources, opportunities and decision-making for women, men and persons with disabilities.

He said the success of the policy would depend on implementation rather than policy formulation alone.

“We must move from commitment to action. This policy must be reflected in programmes, budgets and implementation frameworks,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to ensure effective monitoring and accountability for measurable outcomes.

The launch covered by Persecondnews, signifies a renewed national commitment to closing the existing gaps women have faced in accessing resources, opportunities and decision-making within Nigeria’s agrifood systems.

The launch drew key stakeholders from government, agricultural communities, development partners and civil society organizations.