Keffi, Nasarawa State | 28 August 2026
The Ecosteward and Humanitarian Foundation (EHF) participated in the Peer Learning Meeting and General Assembly of the Community of Agrifood Systems Non-State Actors (COANSA) held from 27–28 August 2026 in Keffi, Nasarawa State, bringing together civil society organisations, farmers’ organisations, private-sector actors, researchers, development partners and other stakeholders working across Nigeria’s agrifood systems.
Ecosteward Foundation was represented at the meeting by its Programs Director, Mr. Nweze Emmanuel, as part of the growing network of non-state actors working to advance sustainable and inclusive agrifood systems in Nigeria.
The two-day gathering provided an important platform for participants to exchange experiences, reflect on progress and challenges in agrifood systems policy advocacy, and identify opportunities for stronger collaboration and collective action. The meeting also considered the 2026 Nigeria Non-State Actors Position and Strategy and COANSA’s engagement with national and continental agrifood systems processes.
Group Photo of COANSA Members
Strengthening the Voice of Non-State Actors
A major focus of the General Assembly was the institutional strengthening of COANSA as a credible and representative platform for non-state actors in Nigeria’s agrifood sector.
COANSA, established in 2013, brings together diverse actors including farmers’ organisations, civil society organisations and NGOs, private-sector and agribusiness actors, research and academic institutions, professional associations, women and youth organisations, persons with disabilities organisations, development partners, cooperatives and community-based organisations.
Participants reviewed the network’s stewardship report, membership structure, leadership arrangements, institutional gaps and opportunities for strengthening its operations. Discussions emphasized the importance of transparent governance, effective coordination, inclusive participation, sustainable financing and stronger communication and visibility.
The Assembly recognized that COANSA’s strength lies in its ability to bring together diverse actors around common agrifood systems priorities and provide a collective platform for influencing policies, programmes and investments affecting agriculture and food systems.
Promoting Peer Learning and Collective Action
The first day of the meeting focused on peer learning and experience sharing, providing participants with an opportunity to reflect on their engagement with government, policies, budgets and programme implementation.
Discussions explored lessons from agrifood systems policy advocacy and engagement with the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), while participants also considered common challenges and approaches for strengthening the influence and accountability of non-state actors.
Participants further worked in groups to identify priority issues for collective advocacy and practical areas for joint engagement with government, development partners and other stakeholders.
These engagements reinforced the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among civil society organisations, farmers’ organisations, research institutions, private-sector actors, youth and women-led organisations, and other stakeholders within the agrifood system.
Opportunities for Collaboration and Policy Influence
For Ecosteward Foundation, participation in the General Assembly represents an opportunity to deepen its engagement with organisations working to transform Nigeria’s food and agricultural systems.
The Foundation’s work in agroecology, climate resilience, youth engagement, environmental sustainability and food systems advocacy aligns with several of COANSA’s strategic priorities, including policy advocacy, knowledge exchange, resource mobilization, partnerships and engagement with national and continental agricultural policy processes.
COANSA’s strengthening strategy places particular emphasis on evidence-based policy positions, engagement with government and development partners, participation in national and continental agricultural policy processes, and the convening of policy dialogues.
The network also seeks to strengthen peer learning, knowledge sharing and visibility while expanding participation across states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Nweze Emmanuel (EHF Director of Programs)
Ecosteward Foundation’s Commitment
Ecosteward Foundation recognizes that transforming Nigeria’s agrifood systems requires collaboration among civil society, farmers, young people, government institutions, researchers, businesses and other stakeholders.
The Foundation will continue to explore opportunities for meaningful engagement within COANSA, particularly around agroecological transformation, climate-resilient food systems, youth participation, environmental sustainability and policy advocacy.
The COANSA General Assembly marks an important step towards building a stronger collective platform for agrifood systems non-state actors. With improved governance, stronger membership engagement, sustainable financing and coordinated advocacy, COANSA has the potential to amplify the voice of non-state actors and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda.
As the meeting concluded, participants reaffirmed the importance of collective ownership, collaboration and sustained engagement in advancing a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood system in Nigeria.