ARCN Seeks Greater Investment in Research, Innovation to Transform Africa's Food Systems

The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) has called for increased investment in agricultural research, innovation and strategic partnerships to transform Africa's food systems, saying science driven solutions remain critical to addressing food insecurity, climate change, land degradation and other threats to sustainable agricultural development across the continent.

The Executive Secretary of ARCN, Prof. Dabban Adamu, made the call on Tuesday at the opening of the 9th African Agricultural Science Week (AASW) and the 10th General Assembly of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) in Abuja.

Adamu said Africa must harness science, technology and innovation to overcome the challenges limiting agricultural productivity and economic growth, describing the gathering as a landmark continental platform bringing together policymakers, scientists, researchers, development partners, private sector leaders, farmers, women and youths to chart a new course for agricultural transformation.

He noted that the conference aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which places agriculture, food security and economic growth at the heart of Nigeria's development priorities.

According to him, sustained investment in agricultural research, innovation and technology will strengthen food and nutrition security, improve productivity, create employment opportunities and enhance the livelihoods of millions of Africans.

Speaking on the conference theme, "Innovation and Partnership for a Resilient Sustainable Agri-Food System in Africa," Adamu said the theme underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address climate change, land degradation, limited access to technology and changing market demands.

He stressed that stronger partnerships, scientific excellence and innovative solutions that prioritise farmers and local communities are essential to achieving sustainable agricultural transformation across the continent.

The ARCN boss reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to promoting research that supports sustainable agricultural development through its network of research institutes, universities, government agencies and collaborations with development partners and the private sector.

He added that the week-long event provides participants with opportunities to exchange knowledge, showcase cutting-edge technologies, strengthen partnerships and develop practical solutions to improve the resilience of Africa's agri-food systems.

Adamu also commended FARA, the Federal Government, development partners, sponsors, members of the local organising committee and volunteers for their contributions to the successful hosting of the conference.

Also speaking, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, urged African countries to move beyond simply adopting agricultural technologies to becoming leaders in developing indigenous innovations.

"Knowledge has become the most valuable agricultural resource of the twenty-first century. Our ability to harness this knowledge through science, technology and innovation will determine whether we achieve the agricultural transformation we all seek. Africa must move beyond technology consumption to technology generation," the minister said.

Kyari highlighted ongoing Federal Government reforms aimed at repositioning the agricultural sector, including investments in irrigation, mechanisation, digital agriculture, agro-industrialisation and agricultural financing.

He said the future of African agriculture would be driven by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, satellite technology, biotechnology, digital platforms and data science, urging researchers and policymakers to leverage these innovations to build resilient, productive and sustainable food systems.

The 9th African Agricultural Science Week and the 10th FARA General Assembly attracted stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to deliberate on practical strategies for building inclusive, productive and sustainable agri-food systems.