FG Launches Comprehensive Review of Agricultural Laws to Boost Food Security
FG Launches Comprehensive Review of Agricultural Laws to Boost Food Security
The Federal Government on Monday kicked off a high-level workshop in Abuja focused on reforming Nigeria’s agricultural laws to strengthen food security, enhance climate resilience, and drive economic development.
Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, emphasized the pressing need to update agricultural legislation that has remained unchanged for decades.
He noted that the existing laws no longer reflect the realities of the modern agricultural landscape, particularly amid growing challenges such as climate change, insecurity, and increasing production costs.
Dr Abdullahi highlighted the sector’s ongoing shift toward modern farming techniques, diversification of crops and livestock, increased use of mechanisation and irrigation, and expanded extension services.
The Minister cited gaps in key statutes, including the Plant Variety Protection Act, Nigerian Co‑operative Societies Act, and the Veterinary Surgeons Act (1969).
He noted the absence of updated regulations under the Co‑operative Societies framework since its enactment in 1992 and described the review as a presidential legacy initiative.
A recent EU‑sponsored mission to Kenya was highlighted for benchmarking co‑operative governance models. All amendments, he stressed, will align with constitutional provisions.
Dr Garba Isimbabi, Director of Legal Services at the Ministry, underscored that updating agricultural laws is essential not only for legal clarity but also for enhancing productivity, attracting private investment, protecting farmers’ rights, and fostering inclusive growth.
He described the workshop as a crucial platform to generate legal proposals aimed at streamlining food systems and rural livelihoods.
Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, harped on reform, emphasizing that Nigeria’s foundational agricultural legislation has not kept pace with modern agribusiness realities.
He underscored the need for clear land tenure systems, improved access to financing, and strict quality control for seeds, fertilisers, and food safety standards.
Ogunbiyi also called for the active inclusion of smallholder farmers, women, and youth, describing the workshop as a crucial step toward recognizing and harnessing their contributions and innovations.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to providing the necessary policy, institutional, and legislative support to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
