Title: Nigeria’s Agric Minister, Kyari, Emerges Chair of IFAD Governing Council Date Published: 10 February 2026 Description: Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has been appointed Chairman of the 49th Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).The appointment was announced during the 49th Session of the IFAD Governing Council Meeting held on Tuesday in Rome, Italy, according to a statement issued by the Head of Information at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ezeaja Ikemefuna.In his acceptance speech, Kyari pledged to provide inclusive, impartial and strategically focused leadership aimed at fostering consensus, strengthening multilateral cooperation and sustaining IFAD’s global credibility.“It is with humility and a strong sense of duty that I accept this role,” Kyari said. “I see this mandate not as a personal honour, but as a responsibility to millions of rural women and men across the world.”The minister reaffirmed his commitment to advancing IFAD’s mission as a financially resilient, policy-driven and impact-oriented development institution.Kyari also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for positioning Nigeria as a key player in global development cooperation.He commended the outgoing Chairman of the Governing Council, Mr Christophe Schiltz, for his leadership, noting that global food systems continue to face significant challenges, including climate shocks, economic instability, conflicts and population growth pressures.Assuring stakeholders of his resolve, Kyari said innovation and stronger partnerships would be prioritised to ensure inclusive growth and sustainable food systems.“Together, we will advance policies that empower farmers, strengthen resilience, unlock rural enterprises and ensure that no rural community is left behind,” he added. Attached Images: 19a0c45f841b45c9a4878f390972fbd85fdd813eee2b44ae624169d773e03664.jpg Attached Video: None