The federal government has called on development partners, the private sector, and institutions to sustain collaboration towards building an agricultural sector that is productive, inclusive, resilient, and globally competitive.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), Marcus Ogunbiyi, made the call on Thursday in Abuja at the conferment of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) Quality Mark Award on five rice processing groups from Niger State.

The groups, supported under the federal government/International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), were recognised for their commitment to quality, food safety, and excellence in agro-processing.

The award recipients were drawn from Borgu, Mokwa, Edati, and Kontagora Local Government Areas of Niger State, following their outstanding performance and adherence to internationally recognised quality standards.

Mr Ogunbiyi said the recognition reflected a commitment to quality and the growing achievements of rural agribusiness entrepreneurs.

He said the development demonstrated that smallholder-based enterprises could compete successfully when equipped with the right knowledge, skills, infrastructure, and support.

The permanent secretary acknowledged the partnership with IFAD, noting that its support had continued to transform the livelihoods of rural farming and processing households across the country.

“Quality is no longer optional in today’s competitive agricultural marketplace. It is a prerequisite for market access, consumer confidence, food safety and sustainable business growth.

“Through the VCDP, the Federal Government has consistently promoted value addition, quality assurance and market-oriented production among smallholder farmers and agro-processors.

“The success being celebrated today demonstrates the effectiveness of investments in capacity building, processing infrastructure, business development services, market linkages and adherence to standards.

“These interventions have empowered rural enterprises to improve productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, enhance product quality and increase incomes.

“The achievement also aligns with the ministry’s broader agenda of transforming Nigeria’s agriculture into a modern, resilient and commercially viable sector capable of ensuring food security, creating jobs and driving economic growth,” he said.

Mr Ogunbiyi urged the award recipients to continue serving as ambassadors of quality and excellence within their communities and the wider agricultural sector.

He also encouraged other farmers and processor groups to embrace best practices, maintain high standards and pursue continuous improvement. 

(NAN)