News in brief:
– Agriculture minister has vowed to address obstacles like round-tripping, inaccurate farmer data and fraudulent practices hindering Nigeria’s food security.
– He emphasised that these challenges could negate government efforts, like the Tinubu-led administration’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
Nigeriaâs minister of agriculture and food security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has pledged to eliminate various obstacles hindering food security. These hinderances include round-tripping, the fraudulent practice of diverting subsidised farming inputs, and inaccurate farmer data.
According to the minister, these challenges prevent eligible beneficiaries from receiving needed support and aids from policies and programs. His statement came during a visit from Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, when he emphasised the importance of addressing these longstanding challenges.
Kyari said that these challenges, if left unchecked, could jeopardise the Tinubu-led administration’s Renewed Hope agenda for increased food production. He outlined a multi-pronged approach to combat these issues.
Firstly, the ministry will implement stricter measures to guarantee transparent distribution of farm inputs during the upcoming dry/wet season farming for rice, maize, and cassava. This will ensure that targeted farmers directly receive the intended benefits.
Furthermore, in recognition of the importance of collaboration, the minister stressed the importance of working with state and local governments and traditional rulers. It will also work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), relevant ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). Kyari emphasised that such teamwork will be crucial in achieving desired goals and overcoming time constraints.
Additionally, he announced that the second phase of the dry/wet season farming intervention will begin in January 2024. The ministry is determined to make the project a success by using technology and mechanisation, Kyrari siad, and contribute significantly to national food security.
The minister expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support in the quest for food security.
