By Ayoade Esther Damola
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Wednesday advocated for a strategic market system, saying that it would transform subsistence farming into profitable, competitive, and sustainable value chains and revolutionise the agricultural ecosystem.
The minister stated when he received in audience the Heifer International delegation led by the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Heifer International, Surita Sandosham in Abuja.
Kyari said a well-designed market system connects smallholder farmers to higher-value markets, directly increasing their incomes and fostering economic resilience.
He added that effective market strategies encourage private sector investment in agricultural services, reducing reliance on aid and creating sustainable, self-reinforcing markets.
The minister added that digital platforms and better market information enable farmers to negotiate better prices and reduce exploitation by intermediaries.
He stated further that research identifies market access, value addition, and strengthening linkages as primary drivers of value chain competitiveness.
Kyari said: “Extension Africa, Pullus Africa, Nimsy Agro, Vet Konnect, and Thrive Agric stand as strong examples of how catalytic support can help scale agribusiness innovation, improve farmer access to services, and strengthen agricultural value chains.’’
He acknowledged Heifer International’s continued support to Nigeria’s private sector, saying, “Through your interventions and partnerships, several innovative agribusinesses have emerged and recorded notable success.’
He further stated that: “Heifer International remains a valued and longstanding partner in Nigeria’s agricultural development journey.”
