The Federal Government has unveiled a series of initiatives and priorities aimed at enhancing food production and achieving food security across the country.
These initiatives include the delivery of agricultural inputs to farmers, repositioning agricultural institutions and fostering stronger engagement among farmers, herders, and communities.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, highlighted these measures during the 46th meeting of the National Council on Agriculture and Food Security held in Calabar, Cross River State.
Kyari stated, “As priority actions, ongoing tasks include the delivery of agro-inputs to farmers, the repositioning of agricultural institutions, and deepening engagement among farmers, herders and communities.” He further outlined additional initiatives such as collaboration on water resource irrigation schemes, soil fertility and information systems, establishing laboratories in research institutes and repositioning universities, faculties and colleges to better support agricultural development.
The minister emphasised that the meeting serves as a platform to review existing policies, programmes and projects at both national and sub-national levels, fostering synergy, best practices, entrepreneurship and growth in the sector. He urged participants to prioritise inclusiveness, transparency, and partnership in advancing agribusiness initiatives across the country.
In his remarks, the governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu represented by his deputy, Peter Odey, pledged the state government’s continued support for smallholder farmers through agricultural inputs and financial grants. He also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to partnering with the Federal Government to implement agricultural policies under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aimed at achieving food and nutritional security.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi also addressed the gathering, noting that the government is leveraging infrastructure, technology, and entrepreneurship to explore the country’s agricultural potential, strengthen sectoral linkages and promote social inclusion in the quest for food security.
A statement by the ministry’s director of information signed by Mrs. Anthonia Eremah noted that the annual council meeting was attended by state commissioners of agriculture, permanent secretaries, development partners, investors and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, among others.
The event’s highlight was the presentation of awards to farmers and stakeholders who have made outstanding contributions to the agricultural sector.
