Global Forum on Food Security and Nutrition (FSN Forum)

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Dr. Abdurrazzaq Ibrahim Abdullahi

Member since
Organization: University of Maiduguri
Country: Nigeria
Field(s) of expertise:

This member contributed to:

    • Question 1:
      The greatest challenge that the FAO guidance can help address in advancing an SPI for agrifood systems in Nigeria is the lack of a structured approach to science-policy interfaces, leading to limited dialogue between scientists, policymakers, and other stakeholders. The guidance can help address this by providing a framework for establishing functional SPIs, identifying core elements, and promoting principles such as credibility and legitimacy.

      To make the guidance more practical and usable at the country level, I suggest:

      - Providing concrete examples and case studies from Nigeria or similar contexts
      - Developing a step-by-step guide for establishing and operationalizing SPIs
      - Offering training and capacity-building programs for SPI actors
      - Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders

      Question 2:
      The draft guidance covers essential sections and elements, including core elements, principles, and mechanisms for knowledge co-creation. However, additional elements that should be considered include:

      - Addressing power asymmetries and ensuring inclusivity
      - Fostering collaboration across different knowledge systems
      - Developing capacity development activities for SPI actors
      - Encouraging learning and evaluation mechanisms

      Some sections, such as the importance of traditional knowledge and Indigenous Peoples' perspectives, may be underrepresented and should be expanded.

      Question 3:
      Here's a potential case study:

      Nigeria's Agricultural Research Council (ARCN) established an SPI to address the country's agrifood system challenges. The SPI brought together scientists, policymakers, farmers, and industry experts to co-create solutions. Key success factors included:

      - Inclusive dialogue and knowledge sharing
      - Capacity development programs for stakeholders
      - Collaborative research and innovation initiatives
      - Policy reforms and implementation

      Lessons learned include the importance of addressing power asymmetries, fostering collaboration across knowledge systems, and connecting across scales (local to global).

      Question 4:
      Additional information that should be included in the draft guidance includes:

      - References to traditional knowledge and Indigenous Peoples' perspectives
      - Case studies from low- and middle-income countries
      - Examples of successful SPIs addressing asymmetries in power and collaboration across knowledge systems
      - Key publications and resources on science-policy interfaces and agrifood systems