Speaking at a food security panel at the ongoing World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Shettima said the Federal Government has adopted a holistic, multi-dimensional approach to food security, positioning it as a strategic pillar for economic stability, effective governance, and regional cohesion.

He noted that the Tinubu administration has commenced wide-ranging agricultural reforms aimed at protecting the country from global supply shocks while revitalising productivity across key food-producing regions.

The Vice President expressed optimism that the Renewed Hope Agenda would accelerate climate adaptation from pilot projects to full-scale implementation and significantly boost intra-African trade beyond current levels.

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In Nigeria for instance, UBA Foundation’s outreach extended to beneficiaries across all the regions of the country, impacting homes, and IDP camps including the Daughter of Mercy Mother of Mary Orphanage Home in Abia; the Trinitarian Foundation for Orphans and the Helpless in Ebonyi; The Destitute Home Okobaba in Lagos; Oyiza Orphanage and Foster Foundation in Oyo; Itsoghena Orphanage Home in Edo; Enoima Children Home in Akwa Ibom; Yekope Orphanage in Kogi; IDP Camps in Niger and Borno; UMCN Orphanage Home in Taraba; Kebbi Children’s Home; and the Orphanage Home in Dutse, Jigawa.

In Africa, UBA Foundation’s humanitarian efforts and nutritional support were also replicated in Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Congo DRC, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mozambique, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, where several hundreds of thousands were also impacted.

The Managing Director/CEO, UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, who visited some of the orphanages including the Destitute Home Okobaba, Lagos where she distributed non-perishable food items and school materials to adults and students alike, emphasised the foundation’s belief in impacting lives all-year round, to create lasting effect and touch the lives of people in all areas, regardless of location and economic barriers.

She said, “At UBA Foundation, we believe that true development begins with compassion and action. Through our various Food Bank and Giving Back initiatives, we are not only providing nourishment and essential support, but also restoring hope and creating pathways for children and families to learn, grow, and thrive. This is our commitment to Africa: to show up consistently, act responsibly, and leave no community behind.”

Explaining further, she said, “Our various interventions aim to support people by equipping them not only with the right tools but also with the essential nourishment required for cognitive development and physical well-being.”

The foundation has a long-standing tradition of philanthropy, with numerous initiatives across Africa including the National Essay Competition, The Read Africa Project, Tree Planting for Sustainability, Health Outreaches, Each1 Teach 1, Kindness Connect, Food Bank, and others, aimed at empowering the underprivileged and poverty alleviation.

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of education, environment, economic empowerment and special projects.

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The decision was reached during a high-level engagement between senior officials from both sides, as part of preparations for a major ministerial meeting scheduled to hold in Abuja in March 2026, signaling a deeper and more diversified cooperation beyond oil.

The EU pledged continued cooperation on counter-terrorism, Gulf of Guinea maritime security, and addressing root causes of instability like youth unemployment while Nigeria called for greater EU support on climate adaptation and green tech.

Agreements were reached on a balanced approach to migration through skills partnerships to align with the EU’s “Global Gateway”, an initiative that will drive investments into Nigerian infrastructure, clean energy, and youth programs.

Both sides expressed confidence in the partnership’s growth, marking 2026 as a pivotal year for enhanced cooperation.

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The shipment, which berthed at Apapa Port in Lagos, reinforces Nigeria’s position as the third-largest export market for American wheat and highlights the rapidly expanding agricultural partnership between both nations.

U.S. Consul General Rick Swart and U.S. Agricultural Counselor Chris Bielecki were on site to witness the unloading of the cargo

The shipment highlights the growing agricultural partnership between the two nations.

Trade in U.S. agricultural products supports American farmers, enables Nigerian companies to expand value-added food processing and create jobs, and delivers high-quality ingredients to Nigerian consumers.

This year, bilateral agricultural trade between the United States and Nigeria is projected to more than double, surpassing $700 million in 2025 a milestone that benefits producers, businesses, and households in both countries.

The steady flow of U.S. wheat to Nigeria reflects the strength of commercial ties and the critical role of agriculture in the broader U.S. Nigeria economic relationship.

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During the visit the Governor toured key agricultural and livestock facilities, including CP Foods Layers and Eggs Ltd., a leading producer with an output of nearly three million eggs daily.

The visit is aimed at studying large-scale production models that can help Kaduna boost food security, expand agro-industrial capacity, and create sustainable jobs.

The Governor also visited Beijing Doudian Yisheng Halal Meat Industry Co., Ltd., where he explored opportunities for strengthening Kaduna’s livestock value chain and attracting credible international partners.

He acknowledged the support of the federal government delegation led by Joseph Tegba, and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well as the Government of the People’s Republic of China for their ongoing collaboration and commitment to deepening agricultural development in Nigeria.

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The project launch featured engagements with the Edo State Forestry Commission and the Gelegele Forest Reserve Board, underscoring Sahara Group’s collaborative approach to restoring ecosystems, safeguarding biodiversity, and promoting sustainable livelihoods within host communities.

Launched in 2023, the Adopt-A-Forest Initiative is one of Sahara Group’s foremost climate action programmes designed to restore degraded landscapes, conserve Africa’s natural carbon sinks, and strengthen resilience against climate change. By 2024, the initiative had successfully expanded across Nigeria, Cameroon, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, and Dubai, with further projects planned in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Kenya in 2025.

Ejiro Gray, Director, Governance and Sustainability, Sahara Group, described the initiative as a key driver of Sahara’s vision for a greener and more sustainable future.

The Adopt-A-Forest Initiative is more than a tree-planting program, it is aimed at driving environmental sustainability of our natural carbon sinks. We recognize this God-given gift as vital to managing emissions, sequestering carbon, and ensuring that Africa’s lungs continue to sustain the planet.”

Also speaking at the launch, Babatomiwa Adesida, Head of Business Support, Asharami Energy (a Sahara Group company), said the project reflects the Group’s integrated approach to sustainability.

”At Asharami Energy, sustainability is at the core of our business. Our support for the Adopt-A-Forest Initiative reflects our shared responsibility to regenerate the environment and protect biodiversity”,  he said. “Every tree planted represents a step toward reversing decades of degradation and rebuilding hope.”

Hon. Asuen Valentine, Chairman, Edo State Forestry Commission, commended Sahara Group for its forward-looking intervention.

“The best time to plant a tree was years ago; the second-best time is now. We are grateful to Sahara Group for championing the Adopt-A-Forest Initiative and commend this visionary effort that will go a long way in restoring our forests and preserving them for future generations.”

Speaking further on the initiative, Gray reaffirmed Sahara’s resolve to continue driving climate leadership across its operations in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

“This work is necessary and non-negotiable,” she added. “We must continuously strike the right balance between preserving our natural forests and biodiversity and driving sustainable development for all.”

The Adopt-A-Forest Initiative remains a cornerstone of Sahara Group’s climate action strategy, integrating nature-based solutions, resource efficiency, and stakeholder collaboration to ensure Africa continues to “breathe” through its forests, the continent’s most vital gift to the world.

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Vice President Kashim Shettima , made this disclosur eon Wednesday in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the 8th Seed Connect Africa Conference and Exhibition, which coincided with the 50th anniversary of the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC).

The event brought together government officials, development partners, seed companies, farmers, researchers, and international stakeholders to discuss innovations shaping Africa’s agricultural future.

Represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Food Security, Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, the Vice President said Nigeria’s food security strategy cannot succeed without a strong, innovative, and resilient seed system.

“The seed is the first technology, the original data packet that determines the success or failure of the agricultural value chain. If the seed is weak, the harvest fails. If the seed is strong, the nation thrives,” Shettima stated.

He formally launched the Seeds for Renewed Hope Programme (S-RHP), describing it as the operational driver of Nigeria’s new seed transformation strategy.

To mark the programme’s commencement, government and private partners distributed branded improved seeds of rice, maize, and vegetables to farmers at the event.

The government aims to increase annual seed availability for major crops by 10 percent between 2025 and 2027 to help narrow Nigeria’s seed demand–supply gap.

The newly approved Seed Fund operationalises Section 45 of the NASC Act 2019 and is expected to stimulate private-sector-led seed production, expand access to high-quality seeds, and address structural bottlenecks in the industry. According to Shettima, the fund will deliver far-reaching socio-economic and environmental benefits.

The Vice President also revealed plans to strengthen seed testing laboratories, intensify enforcement against fake seeds, and increase youth and women participation in seed entrepreneurship.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, in his remarks, said the seed sector’s 50-year journey reflects Nigeria’s determination to build a resilient agricultural foundation.

“Agriculture is the measure of our national resilience and a pillar of stability,” Kyari said, just as he also added that quality seeds remain central to President Tinubu’s food security agenda.

The minister highlighted ongoing gains in the agricultural sector, including the expansion of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme, Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP), increased wheat production across several states, the introduction of rainfed wheat cultivation in Plateau State, a breakthrough led by the Lake Chad Research Institute, recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture with ₦1.5 trillion, an additional ₦250 billion financing window for farmers, and the full operationalisation of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF).

“We are already witnessing a decline in food prices across several commodities. While we are not yet where we want to be, this positive trend confirms that we are moving in the right direction,” he added.

The two-day conference continues with technical sessions, exhibitions, and policy dialogues aimed at strengthening Africa’s seed ecosystem.

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The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Mukhtar Maiha, during the inauguration of the 1st National Council on Livestock Development in Yola, Adamawa State.

The minister lamented that the ongoing farmers-herders clashes have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of thousands of Nigerians.

“Nigerians have been subjected to untold hardships, including the killing of innocent farmers and herders, as a result of open grazing. There is an urgent need to put a stop to this problem,” Maiha said.

He emphasized that open grazing is now considered a capital offense, urging cattle rearers to embrace ranching as a safer and more profitable method. “Ranching will not only prevent conflicts but also improve the quality and weight of cattle for better business,” the minister added.

Highlighting the economic potential of the sector, Maiha said the ministry is positioning livestock development as the country’s second-largest revenue earner after oil and gas. “We project the ministry to generate $74 billion in the next five years. So far, over $14 billion has been realized through the ongoing livestock initiatives,” he stated.

Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Professor Kaleptawa Farauta, who declared the council open, described the state as a hub for livestock production, adding that hosting the first National Council on Livestock Development in Adamawa was appropriate.

The newly inaugurated National Council on Livestock Development comprises all directors of livestock from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and is tasked with overseeing the implementation of policies to modernize and expand Nigeria’s livestock sector.

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The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr Chinyere Akujobi, confirmed the development on Thursday during a public hearing on six livestock-related bills held at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Dr Akujobi, represented by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Adeniyi Adedoyin, said the bills under consideration seek to establish new livestock colleges and research institutes across the country to boost animal production, scientific innovation, and manpower development.

“The Federal Government owes ₦498.7 million in unpaid compensation to 307 verified poultry farmers affected by avian influenza between 2021 and 2023.

“A total of ₦3.16 billion had earlier been paid to 1,055 farmers affected by previous outbreaks, but this latest batch remains unpaid due to funding shortfalls.” Akojobi said, just as he also added that a recent outbreak in Wukari, Taraba State, led to the culling of 2,050 birds, with compensation yet to be disbursed.

Providing further details, Adedoyin said compensation payments have been ongoing since 2006, with ₦630.9 million, ₦674.2 million, ₦1.81 billion, and ₦47 million disbursed in different phases up to 2019.

However, he blamed current delays on inadequate budgetary provisions and the absence of an Animal Diseases Contingency or Emergency Fund.
“Since 2021, there has been no dedicated emergency fund for animal disease response, and most affected farmers lack insurance coverage as required by law,” he explained.

Adedoyin also recalled that the Federal Executive Council, in 2022, approved a revised compensation formula, under which the Federal Government shoulders 50 per cent of the cost, states contribute 25 per cent, and farmers cover the remaining 25 per cent.

Adedoyin disclosed that only smallholder farmers with flocks not exceeding 3,000 birds qualify under this arrangement, as larger commercial farms are expected to maintain insurance coverage.

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This development arise Thursday when Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr Chinyere Akujobi confirmed that the Federal has yet to pay compensation amounting to ₦498.7 million to 307 verified poultry farmers who suffered losses from avian influenza outbreaks between 2021 and 2023.

Akujobi confirmed the development on Thursday during a public hearing on six livestock-related bills held at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, Hon. Wale Raji, made this disclosure on Thursday during the public hearing

Raji said the intervention aligns with the National Livestock Transformation Plan and forms part of the legislature’s broader effort to strengthen veterinary services, promote animal husbandry, and enhance agricultural productivity.

“This hearing provides an opportunity for stakeholders to make valuable inputs that will support livestock growth, improve productivity, and generate employment.. We are also looking into the reasons behind the non-payment of compensation to affected farmers to ensure transparency and justice,” the lawmaker said, just as he also assured that the committee would work diligently to ensure that recommendations from the hearing are implemented to advance livestock education, research, and policy execution.

One of the bills under consideration, sponsored by Bello Ka’oje, seeks to establish the Federal College of Animal Husbandry, envisioned as a specialised institution for training, research, and innovation in animal production.

According to Ka’oje, the proposed college would promote excellence in breeding, animal care, and livestock management, thereby improving productivity, creating jobs, and strengthening national food security.

The lawmaker urged his colleagues and industry stakeholders to support the bill, emphasising that livestock development remains key to Nigeria’s economic diversification and rural development goals.

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