Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has reached out to the United States government for support in addressing pressing challenges in the country’s agricultural sector.

During a meeting with Cary Fowler, the U.S. Special Envoy for Global Food Security, Vice President Shettima highlighted the need for assistance, including technical expertise, to enhance Nigeria’s agriculture.

Shettima stressed the importance of mechanization, the use of high-quality seeds, improved farming techniques, and smart agriculture to increase yield and productivity.

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He also underlined the significance of building partnerships and seeking innovative solutions to overcome food security challenges.

Vice President Shettima expressed his commitment to collaborating with stakeholders not only to enhance agricultural productivity in Nigeria but also across Africa.

He emphasized the urgency of finding creative solutions to address the current food security challenges.

In response, Cary Fowler revealed that the U.S. government, in partnership with key organizations, had initiated an agricultural program focused on Africa.

The program, known as the ‘Vision for Adapted Crops and Soil,’ aims to support African nations in sustainable soil cultivation and addressing the impact of climate change on agriculture.

Fowler explained that the program would focus on indigenous African crops that have historically faced underinvestment.

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He mentioned that a multi-donor trust fund had been established to provide long-term funding for the program, with $100 million allocated by the U.S. government.

Fowler stressed the importance of collaboration with countries like Nigeria and the need for political support to ensure the program’s long-term success, with a strong African-led approach.