By Amin Kef (Ranger)
President Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming food systems across Africa through innovation and strategic partnerships. Speaking at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) headquarters in Ibadan, Nigeria, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, President Bio emphasized the urgent need for research-driven agricultural solutions to achieve sustainable food security on the continent.
Delivering a keynote address to hundreds of stakeholders from across Africa, President Bio underscored that food security is not merely an issue of agricultural production but is intrinsically linked to economic growth, climate resilience, health and national stability.
“I firmly believe that research, innovation and technology are the forces we must harness to drive Africa forward,” President Bio stated. He highlighted the complexity of food security, describing it as a systemic challenge requiring coordinated action across multiple sectors, strong political will and strategic investments.
The President’s visit to Nigeria aligns with his Government’s efforts to mobilize expertise, innovation and resources to build a sustainable food system in Sierra Leone through his flagship initiative, Feed Salone. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering an environment where research drives solutions, technology fosters progress and investment creates genuine opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses.
Highlighting the Feed Salone initiative, President Bio emphasized the vital role of agriculture in Sierra Leone’s economy, noting that over 70% of the workforce is engaged in the sector, with women making up the majority. He called for stronger regional collaboration and public-private partnerships to advance agricultural productivity across Africa.
Governor of Oyo State, Oluwaseyi Makinde, commended President Bio for his leadership in championing agricultural transformation. “The Feed Salone Initiative is one of the best agricultural projects in Africa and has the potential to significantly boost food security across the continent,” Governor Makinde stated.
Dr. Simeon Ehui, Director-General of IITA, also praised President Bio’s dedication to food security. “The theme of this program, ‘The Power of Improved Technology and Public-Private Partnerships to Accelerate the Feed Salone Strategy,’ aligns perfectly with our mission,” he noted.
As part of his engagements, President Bio and his delegation participated in a guided field visit, observing IITA’s pioneering work in agricultural research and technological advancements. The visit provided firsthand insight into innovative practices that could be adapted to strengthen Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
President Bio’s visit to Nigeria also included high-level discussions with His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Their meeting centered on strengthening bilateral relations with a particular focus on agriculture, trade and investment. President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development efforts, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in achieving food security and economic growth.
Upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on March 3, 2025, President Bio was warmly received by Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Julius F. Sandy, alongside officials from the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and staff of the Sierra Leone High Commission.
During his time in Nigeria, President Bio is engaging with IITA to explore innovative strategies for boosting agricultural productivity. By studying IITA’s successful models, he aims to adopt and tailor best practices that will empower local farmers, improve crop yields and attract greater investment in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
Recognizing the critical role of research-driven solutions in sustainable agriculture, President Bio is keen on forging strong partnerships with key development stakeholders. His visit to Nigeria underscores his unwavering dedication to ensuring food security, driving agricultural transformation and positioning Sierra Leone as a leader in innovative farming solutions.
With Africa grappling with food security challenges, President Bio’s leadership and commitment to sustainable agricultural development offer a promising pathway toward a resilient and food-secure continent.
