Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria — 23 October 2025
In a significant step toward promoting sustainable agricultural transformation and environmental resilience, the Governor of Ekiti State has approved the constitution of the Agricultural Sustainability and Commodity Initiative (ASCI) Multistakeholder Platform during a courtesy visit by the UK Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria and the ASCI National Coordinator.
The Multistakeholder Platform (MSP) is designed to strengthen collaboration across public, private, and development actors in advancing sustainable commodities production, smallholder resilience, and environmental sustainability. The approval marks a major policy milestone, positioning Ekiti State as a frontrunner in driving inclusive and sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria’s southwest.
During the meeting, discussions centred on fostering innovative partnerships that link smallholder farmers with markets and finance while integrating climate-smart agricultural practices into local food systems. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies that balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
The Deputy High Commissioner commended the leadership of Ekiti State for its proactive stance in promoting sustainable livelihoods and pledged continued support through programmes like Propcom+, funded by the UK Government, to deepen impact and scale market systems interventions.
The establishment of the ASCI Multistakeholder Platform in Ekiti is expected to enhance coordination and accountability among stakeholders, ensuring that agricultural growth in the state contributes to food security, economic prosperity, and environmental conservation.
This development reinforces the UK’s broader commitment to supporting Nigeria’s transition toward greener, inclusive, and resilient agricultural systems that empower communities and protect natural ecosystems.
