The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO ) and other stakeholders including the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development yesterday came together in move to promote millet value chain and its cultivation in Nigeria.
The collaboration which began with seminar in Abuja, brought key players together to mark 2023 as the International Year of Millets with the theme, “Rich in Heritage, Full of Potentials”. According to FAO representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Fred Kafeero, the collaborative efforts throughout this year will focus on raising awareness about the multiple benefits of millets, sharing best practices and innovative approaches for millet production and utilisation, and fostering public-private partnerships to enhance value chains and market access for millet farmers.
He said in the process,women and youths will be empowered in recognising their pivotal role as agents of change in the agricultural sector.
He said, “As we embark on this journey together, I want to recognise the role of collective action, knowledge sharing, and inclusive partnerships, together, we can transform the narrative surrounding millets, elevating them from being a mere staple to a strategic crop that contributes to the achievement of the SDGs.
At FAO we want to reaffirm our commitment in offering technical assistance to GoN in its efforts to promote the cultivation, consumption, and commercialisation of millets. Together with all of you, and with renewed enthusiasm and determination, there is no doubt we will, harness the potential of millets to combat hunger, malnutrition, and the challenges posed by climate change”.
The permanent secretary, ministry of agriculture and rural development, Dr Ernest Umakhihe said efforts are underway to promote iron-biofortified pearl millet, which provides a convenient and affordable source of iron for people.
Represented by B.C Ukatta, the Perm Sec pointed out that the significant step is in need to address nutritional deficiencies and improving the overall health and well-being of Nigerians.
