KEY POINTS
- Forum calls for community-focused agricultural hubs and farmer data bank.
- Recommends modern technology and strengthened Bank of Agriculture.
- Emphasizes good governance as key to food security and economic growth.
Nigeria’s Forum of Former Deputy Governors has called on President Bola Tinubu to depoliticize the agricultural sector, focusing on data-driven reforms and community-based support to enhance food security.
This recommendation emerged from the Forum’s 3rd National Conference, held in Abuja, where former deputy governors gathered to discuss “Strategic Solutions for Good Governance, Food Security, and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria.”
Data-driven farmer support for effective agricultural aid
A core recommendation is establishing a community-based data bank to identify genuine farmers and direct government support to those in need.
The Forum emphasized that accurate data is essential for targeting resources and boosting productivity. Implementing this data-driven approach could mitigate political biases in agricultural support and ensure that farmers receive effective assistance.
The communique, signed by Mukhtar Shehu Shagari and other leaders, urged the government to incorporate agricultural extension centers, demonstration farms, and entrepreneurship skills programs for youth, positioning agriculture as a viable career option.
Agricultural hubs and modernization to boost food security
The Forum proposed creating secure agricultural hubs, equipped with modern technology and high-yield seeds to support food production. They recommended collaboration with community vigilante groups to ensure the security of these hubs and attract investment.
Revitalizing the Bank of Agriculture is also seen as critical for financing, while linkages with research centers would provide innovative agricultural solutions. These hubs, combined with modernized facilities and technology, aim to transform Nigeria’s agriculture sector into a sustainable growth engine.
Good governance as the backbone of sustainable growth
Beyond agricultural reforms, the Forum stressed the importance of good governance, including the completion of existing projects before launching new ones.
It recommended the judicious application of funds from external borrowings, with an emphasis on enhancing public infrastructure and raising living standards.
According to The Punch, The Forum also called for inclusive consultations with the IMF and World Bank on economic policy, underscoring that nation-building requires collective effort.
