Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has called on the governors of Nigeria’s 36 states to prioritize agriculture as a crucial step towards achieving food security. In a recent meeting with the governors, Tinubu emphasized the importance of agricultural development in addressing the nation’s food challenges and stimulating economic growth.
Tinubu highlighted the significant role that agriculture plays in Nigeria’s economy, pointing out that it provides livelihoods for millions of Nigerians and is a key sector for job creation. “Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. By focusing on this sector, we can ensure food security, create jobs, and boost our GDP,” he stated.
The president’s call comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with high food prices and increasing food insecurity. Factors such as climate change, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to modern farming techniques have exacerbated the situation. Tinubu urged the governors to adopt innovative approaches to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
“We need to embrace modern agricultural practices, improve our supply chains, and invest in research and development,” Tinubu said. He also stressed the need for collaboration between the federal and state governments, as well as with private sector stakeholders, to drive agricultural transformation.
Several governors expressed their commitment to Tinubu’s directive. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State highlighted ongoing initiatives to support local farmers and improve agricultural yields. “We are providing farmers with access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and training. Our goal is to increase productivity and ensure our people have enough to eat,” Sule noted.
In Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced plans to invest in agro-processing industries to add value to agricultural produce and reduce post-harvest losses. “By developing our agro-processing capacity, we can create more jobs and enhance the economic value of our agricultural products,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governors also discussed the challenges facing the agricultural sector, including poor infrastructure, lack of access to credit, and security concerns. Tinubu assured them of the federal government’s support in addressing these issues. “We are committed to providing the necessary infrastructure, improving rural security, and facilitating access to finance for our farmers,” he said.
To further support agricultural development, Tinubu announced several federal initiatives, including the establishment of agricultural training centers, the promotion of mechanized farming, and the expansion of irrigation systems. These initiatives aim to equip farmers with the skills and tools needed to enhance productivity and resilience.
In addition, Tinubu called for increased investment in agricultural research and development to drive innovation and sustainability. “Research is key to solving many of our agricultural challenges. We must invest in our research institutions and encourage public-private partnerships in this area,” he emphasized.
The president also addressed the issue of climate change, which has significantly impacted agricultural production in Nigeria. He urged the governors to implement climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure long-term food security. “By adopting sustainable practices, we can protect our environment and ensure that our agricultural sector thrives despite the challenges posed by climate change,” Tinubu said.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector and achieving food security. The governors pledged to work closely with the federal government and other stakeholders to implement the necessary policies and programs
As Nigeria seeks to bolster its agricultural sector, Tinubu’s call to action serves as a reminder of the critical importance of agriculture in national development. With coordinated efforts and strategic investments, Nigeria can overcome its food security challenges and build a resilient agricultural sector that supports economic growth and improves the lives of its citizens.
Source: tribuneonlineng.com
