IFAD gets commendation on agric devt in Nigeria


The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Arc. Sonny Echono has commended the International Fund Agricultural Development (IFAD) for helping Nigeria to address the issues of agricultural development and poverty alleviation.
Arc. Echono gave the commendation on Thursday, 6th August, 2015, when he received a delegation led by the President of the organisation, Prof. Kanoyo Nwanze in his office.
The Permanent Secretary stated that the robust collaboration with IFAD which spanned over 30 years has brought tremendous growth especially in financing of agricultural projects sector.
Arc. Echono, however pleaded with IFAD to increase the loan and Grant Portfolio to Nigeria to support agricultural development.
He also requested IFAD to engage young, vibrant Nigerian youths in IFAD Graduate Internship Programme and Associate programmes.
The Permanent Secretary, while appreciating the Leadership of the organisation, said he was optimistic that Nigeria would be able to perform her obligations to IFAD in view of the good relationship with IFAD, saying he has briefed Mr. President on the collaboration between FMARD and IFAD.
Permanent Secretary, FMARD, Arc. Sonny Echono and President, IFAD, Prof. Kanayo Nwanze with officials of FMARD and IFAD during Courtesy Call to the Ministry recently.


IFAD President, Prof. Kanayo Nwanze earlier in his remarks expressed the good mutual collaboration with FMARD, saying Nigeria has been contributing significantly to IFAD Resources.
Prof. Nwanze said IFAD has promoted Value Chains on Cassava and Rice through Value Chain development Programme, climate change adaptation and Agribusiness Support Programme and a host of others in Nigeria.
He said as part of their country strategy for 2016-2020, the organization hopes to continue to work in partnership with Federal and State Governments in the adoption of a market-led approach to give inclusive growth for Smallholder Farmers, Women and Youth in Nigeria.

IFAD, according to him, will continue to promote entrepreneurs in Value addition activities, while also help in strengthening Private-Sector led input markets in seed and fertilizer markets, saying, investment in rural infrastructure for improved market access is also a priority.

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