NIGERIA’S Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has been appointed Chairman of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The appointment was made today during the 49th Session of the IFAD Governing Council Meeting held in Rome, Italy.
Kyari described the role as a global responsibility rather than a personal achievement, noting that it carries a duty to support vulnerable rural communities around the world.
In his acceptance remarks, the minister pledged to lead with fairness, unity, and strategic focus, while promoting inclusiveness across regions.
He said his leadership would prioritize consensus-building, stronger multilateral collaboration, and the preservation of IFAD’s institutional credibility.
Speaking via a statement shared on his X account, Kyari said he accepted the position with humility, emphasizing that the mandate represents a commitment to millions of rural women and men whose livelihoods depend on IFAD’s work.
He reaffirmed his dedication to IFAD’s mission of remaining financially strong, policy-oriented, and impact-driven.
Kyari also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for positioning Nigeria as an influential voice in global development cooperation.
The minister commended outgoing chairman Christophe Schiltz for his stewardship, acknowledging the mounting pressures on global food systems, including climate change, economic uncertainty, conflict, and population growth.
Kyari assured stakeholders that innovation and strong partnerships would remain central to IFAD’s work, stressing that no rural community should be left behind.
He added that the council would continue advancing policies that empower farmers, build resilience, stimulate rural enterprises, and secure sustainable food systems for future generations.