Abiodun JIMOH
The Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening cold chain infrastructure as a key strategy for enhancing food security and reducing post-harvest losses.

Speaking at the 7th West African Cold Chain Summit and Exhibition (WACCSE 2025) held at the Landmark Conference Centre in Lagos on Tuesday, Kyari highlighted the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle climate change, economic uncertainties, and supply chain inefficiencies affecting the country’s agricultural sector.

Kyari emphasized that food security extends beyond availability, stressing the importance of accessibility and nutrition.

“We recognize that achieving this goal requires a multifaceted approach that enhances agricultural productivity through sustainable practices, improves market access for farmers, and implements policies that ensure equitable distribution of resources,” he said.

He further outlined the government’s initiatives, including climate-resilient agriculture, enhanced irrigation systems, and support for small-scale farmers through training and financial assistance. Additionally, he announced plans for agro-industrial parks and the integration of digital technologies to improve supply chain efficiency.

The Minister called on international partners and stakeholders to collaborate in addressing the complex challenges at the intersection of agriculture, nutrition, and climate change. “This plenary session is not merely a platform for sharing information; it is a call to action,” he declared, urging stakeholders to contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation.

Kyari assured participants that the Ministry remains committed to evidence-based policymaking and global best practices to ensure that Nigeria’s agricultural systems are resilient, economically viable, and capable of providing nutritious food for all citizens.

The WACCSE 2025 summit gathered industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss sustainable solutions for West Africa’s cold chain sector, a critical component of food preservation and distribution.