Events and Conferences On Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Management In Nigeria

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Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural resources and agro-ecological potential for the production of a wide range of crops. However, as with many other developing countries, Nigeria’s agriculture sector remains largely fragmented and underdeveloped. This has been partly due to the general neglect of the agricultural sector by successive governments over the years, coupled with other factors such as low crop yields and adoption of modern farming techniques. To address these challenges and improve the performance of the agricultural sector in Nigeria, there is an urgent need for collective action by all stakeholders. Conferences on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria help bring people together to share ideas on how to improve this important sector. There are several events focused on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management that take place in Nigeria every year. The list below highlights some of these:

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## National Agricultural Innovation Summit

The National Agricultural Innovation Summit (NAIS) is an annual forum that brings together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to deliberate on key issues affecting agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria. NAIS is jointly organised by the National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD). This event holds in June every year, starting with an innovation expo where participants showcase their agricultural innovations, technologies and techniques. The innovation expo also provides an opportunity for companies and organisations to network with potential partners and clients. The NAIS forum takes place on the second day. Participants at this forum discuss issues such as the challenges of agricultural innovation in Nigeria, ways to increase crop yields and encourage adoption of modern farming techniques.

National Conference on Agricultural Extension, Research and Development (EAARD)

The National Conference on Agricultural Extension, Research and Development (EAARD) is one of the major events on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria. This conference focuses on the role of public extension services in agricultural development. EAARD is held every year in August in different locations across the country. EAARD provides a platform for extension workers (people who transfer knowledge to farmers on modern farming techniques) and researchers to share best practices and discuss issues that hinder their work. This conference also serves as a medium for farmers to voice their concerns and issues pertaining to agricultural development in Nigeria.

Forum on Food and Nutrition Security in Nigeria (FFNSN)

The Forum on Food and Nutrition Security in Nigeria (FFNSN) is an annual event focused on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria. This event brings together policymakers, researchers, farmers’ organisations, development organisations and the private sector to discuss various issues affecting agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria. The FFNSN is held every year in May and June in different cities across Nigeria. The forum consists of several events, including an international conference and a national seminar. The international conference takes place in the first week of June, while the national seminar is usually held in the second week of June.

Forum for Rural Co-operatives (FRC)

The Forum for Rural Co-operatives (FRC) is an event focused on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria. This event provides a platform for agricultural extension workers, policymakers, government officials and researchers to discuss issues affecting rural communities in the country. The FRC also acts as a marketplace where agricultural produce from rural areas is showcased and sold. The FRC is held every year in May in different cities across Nigeria.

Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society of Agriculturists (NASAG)

The Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society of Agriculturists (NASAG) is an event focused on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria. This conference provides a platform for researchers, extension workers, policymakers and farmers to discuss issues affecting agricultural development and productivity in Nigeria. NASAG is held every year in May in different cities across Nigeria.

2nd Annual Cereals Workshop/Seminar and Expo in Africa (AWSA)

The 2nd Annual Cereals Workshop/Seminar and Expo in Africa (AWSA) is a major event on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria. This event is organised by the Tropical Agricultural Research and Development (TARDEC) in partnership with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT). AWSA is held every year in August in different cities across Nigeria. It is a three-day event that includes a two-day workshop followed by an expo that lasts for one day. AWSA was created to facilitate knowledge-sharing and networking among stakeholders in the agricultural sector in Nigeria. Participants include policymakers, extension workers, researchers, farmers and members of the private sector.

## Conclusion

The list of events above is by no means exhaustive, as there are several other conferences and forums on agriculture, forestry and natural resources management in Nigeria that take place every year. If you are looking to network with other stakeholders in this important sector, or are in search of new business opportunities, attending any of the events listed above is a great idea.

And remember, the best time to initiate collective action is now.