NIFAAS Holds BOT Inauguration and Maiden Meeting

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, has formally inaugurated the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Nigerian Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (NIFAAS). The inauguration ceremony, which also marked the maiden meeting of the newly constituted Board, took place at the Minister’s Boardroom of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on Wednesday, 14 October 2026.

The event attracted the participation of several directors, senior management staff, and stakeholders from the agricultural extension and advisory services community, underscoring the importance of NIFAAS in strengthening agricultural extension delivery and improving food security across the country.

In his remarks, Dr. Ogunbiyi emphasized the critical role of NIFAAS in promoting innovation, knowledge sharing, and effective agricultural advisory services among farmers and other actors within the agricultural value chain. He expressed confidence in the capacity of the Board to provide strategic leadership and guidance that would advance the objectives of the organization and contribute meaningfully to the agricultural transformation agenda of the Federal Government.

According to the NIFAAS Constitution, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, while the Executive Director of the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), currently Professor Yusuf Ahmad Sani, serves as Co-Chairman.

Other members of the Board of Trustees present at the inauguration included Professor Tunji Arokoyo, Professor Emmanuel Ikani, and Professor ‘Dele Tologbonse, all renowned professionals with extensive experience in agricultural extension, research, and development. Also in attendance were Mr. E. Edache, Engr. Taiye S. Tehinse, Director of the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension (FDAE), Dr. Issa F. O., President of NIFAAS and Country Forum Point (CFP), as well as Dr. Mercy Akeredolu, among other distinguished members and stakeholders.

Subsequently, the Board held its maiden meeting during which members deliberated on key issues relating to the governance, strategic direction, and future activities of the Forum. Discussions focused on strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing collaboration among stakeholders, and positioning NIFAAS to effectively fulfill its mandate of promoting quality agricultural advisory and extension services nationwide.The inauguration and first meeting of the Board mark a significant milestone in the continued growth and development of NIFAAS, reaffirming the Forum’s commitment to supporting agricultural innovation, capacity development, and sustainable food systems for improved livelihoods and national food security.