Abubakar Kyari is a prominent Nigerian politician who has held various positions in Nigerian government. He was born on January 15, 1963, he comes from a distinguished background, with his father, Brigadier Abba Kyari, serving as a former military governor. Abubakar Kyari is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has played a significant role in Nigerian politics. Abubakar Kyari is currently serving as the minister of Agriculture and Food Security, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
Early Life and Education
Abubakar Kyari was born on January 15, 1963, and hails from Borno state. His father, Brigadier Abba Kyari, served as a military governor of North Central State from 1967 to 1975. He grew up in a family of nine siblings.
Abubakar Kyari received his early education in Nigeria, attending the Kaduna Capital School in 1974. He then proceeded to Barewa College in Zaria, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in 1979. Abubakar Kyari furthered his education in the United States, earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Martin, in 1986. In 1989, he pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri.
Abubakar Kyari’s Political Career
Abubakar Kyari’s political career began in 1998 when he was elected to the House of Representatives of Nigeria under the platform of the United Nigeria Congress Party. However, due to the party’s dissolution following the death of General Sani Abacha, he did not take office.
In 1999, during the start of the fourth republic, Kyari was re-elected to the House of Representatives, this time under the platform of the All People’s Party (APP). He served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2003.
Kyari then ventured into state politics, serving in various positions in the Borno State government. He was appointed as the Borno State commissioner for Water Resources in 2003 by Governor Ali Modu Sheriff. He also held positions such as managing director of the Rural Water Supply Agency and commissioner for Education.
Throughout his career, Kyari held several other key positions in Borno State, including commissioner for Home Affairs and Information and commissioner for Works. From 2011 to 2014, he served as the Chief of Staff to Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima, demonstrating his commitment to public service.
In 2015, Abubakar Kyari was elected to the Senate representing Borno North Senatorial District under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was re-elected in 2019, serving until April 2022 when he resigned to take on the role of APC deputy national chairman, North.
Appointment as Minister of Agriculture and Food Security
On August 16, 2023, Abubakar Kyari was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as the minister of Agriculture and Food Security. This appointment showcases his expertise and dedication to the agricultural sector in Nigeria. As the minister, Kyari is responsible for overseeing policies and initiatives aimed at promoting agricultural development, ensuring food security, and fostering sustainable farming practices in the country.
Recognition and Awards
In October 2022, Abubakar Kyari was honored with the Nigerian national honour of Commander Of The Order Of The Niger (CON) by President Muhammadu Buhari. This recognition highlights his contributions to the development of Nigeria and his outstanding service in various government positions.
