Tinubu’s Food Security Agenda Gains Momentum Under Prof. Garba Sharubutu at ARCN
By Yakubu Dati
In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed a steady decline in the prices of staple foods—an unexpected but welcome relief for many citizens. For a country where price hikes are often seen as irreversible, the sudden drop in the cost of grains, vegetables, and other food items has left many in pleasant disbelief.
From the North to the South, market-goers are experiencing significant price reductions on essential commodities such as beans, gari, and onions, easing the financial burden on families. However, what many may not realize is that this positive shift is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate government policies and strategic implementation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Among the key figures driving this transformation is Professor Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, the Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN). Through his leadership, ARCN has been at the forefront of research-driven agricultural reforms, playing a crucial role in strengthening Nigeria’s food security framework.
Transforming ARCN for Agricultural Innovation
When Prof. Sharubutu assumed office in 2019, he quickly recognized that a well-fed population is a productive population. He immediately set out to reform ARCN, addressing internal capacity depletion and leadership disputes. His first steps included setting up key committees, such as the Staff Audit Committee and the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee, to ensure the council’s operations aligned with its mandate.
A grassroots mobilizer with a deep understanding of rural development, Prof. Sharubutu was instrumental in the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), where his philanthropic and grassroots engagement helped reach rural communities nationwide.
Under his leadership at ARCN, he initiated the recruitment of 1,650 new scientists, significantly boosting agricultural research efforts. This influx of expertise has driven innovations that are directly impacting food security across the country.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Farmers
Recognizing the importance of effective information dissemination, Prof. Sharubutu launched dedicated ARCN radio and television platforms. These channels deliver agricultural technologies and insights directly to rural farmers, improving their knowledge and farming practices.
Further strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural research landscape, he spearheaded a comprehensive Baseline/Needs Assessment Study of 16 Agricultural Research Institutes and 17 Federal Colleges of Agriculture. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), identified strengths, gaps, and opportunities in the agricultural ecosystem, setting the stage for impactful policy decisions.
To foster collaboration, Prof. Sharubutu also convened the National Agricultural Research Extension Summit, where experts and farmers discussed the role of digital technology in sustainable agricultural extension service delivery.
International Recognition and Policy Reforms
Prof. Sharubutu’s sterling performance has earned him global recognition. He was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), where he represents the Federal Government of Nigeria. This role has enhanced collaboration between ARCN and international agricultural research organizations, promoting the adoption of innovative farming technologies across Africa.
Under his leadership, ARCN has also been actively involved in policy discussions to modernize agricultural research and training. In January 2024, the federal government announced key reforms within ARCN and its affiliated institutions, focusing on capacity building and aligning research with national agricultural priorities.
Strengthening Food Security Through Science and Innovation
Through these initiatives, Prof. Sharubutu has revitalized ARCN, ensuring that scientifically proven agricultural models are integrated into Nigeria’s food security strategy. His work directly supports President Tinubu’s vision of fair pricing, efficient food distribution, and increased agricultural productivity—a vision that is already bearing fruit.
Beyond policy, Prof. Sharubutu’s philanthropy and community service in Plateau State have further endeared him to the public. His efforts in providing solar-powered lights, boreholes, and empowerment programs have directly improved the lives of his people, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots development.
Prominent figures such as Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, former Deputy Speaker of the 9th Assembly, and Hon. John Dafa’an, his representatives at the National Assembly, have attested to his grassroots appeal and impactful leadership.
A Key Pillar of the Tinubu Administration
As Nigeria continues on its path toward food security and agricultural sustainability, Prof. Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, MNI, FCVSN, FASN, remains a vital asset in the Tinubu administration. His unwavering commitment to research, policy reforms, and rural development has cemented his status as a key driver of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation.
With these strides, ARCN is deepening the Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry while advancing the nation’s goal of becoming a global agricultural powerhouse.
Yakubu Dati is a former Plateau State Commissioner.
Email: yakubudati@gmail.com