Strengthening Agricultural Policies: SEEDAN's Engagement with the Permanent Secretary of Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security

On April 24, 2025, a meeting took place between the President of SEEDAN and his team and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS). During the meeting, the Permanent Secretary was congratulated on his return, and discussions were held regarding potential collaborations. SEEDAN provided an overview of three significant projects:

1. Institutional Capacity Development Support for SEEDAN

2. Alliance for Cowpea and Maize Commercialization

3. Awareness Creation for Climate-Smart Crop Varieties

The SEEDAN delegation voiced concerns about the absence of seed initiatives in the current programs of the Ministry and noted the delays in payments under the NAGS-AP program, which have persisted for over eight months.

In response, the Permanent Secretary recognized the critical role of seeds in agriculture, communicated the importance of ongoing collaboration, confirmed funding for the rice seed supply for 2025, and assured that the necessary payments would be processed once the issues with the Ministry of Finance are resolved.

Furthermore, the Permanent Secretary encouraged SEEDAN to increase its visibility and work in close partnership with the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) and other relevant departments. SEEDAN expressed its commitment to following this guidance and maintaining robust collaboration with the recommended sectors of the Ministry and applicable development organizations.

The meeting was attended by the permanent secretary of FMAFS, Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, and SEEDAN President Alh. Yusuf Kibiya Ado; SEEDAN Treasurer- Alh. Ali Ahmed Ali and SEEDAN Ag. Executive Secretary- Mr. Stephen Adigun Oludapo.

Written by SEEDAN Secretariat- April 25, 2025.

The PS- Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi flanked by SEEDAN President, Treasurer, and Ag. Executive Secretary