FG commits to empowering farmers to boost food security

Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria’s minister of agriculture and food security, has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering farmers with the skills and tools they need to boost their farm business and meet global market demands.

The minister through Gagare Nadono, director of agric business and marketing in the ministry, at the ongoing special agro equipment technology expo, tagged “Sustainable food security and agro produce export through mechanisation,” which began in Abuja, on Tuesday.

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According to Kyari, “Government’s commitment to agricultural modernisation goes beyond mere technological advancement. It is about empowering the farmers with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to succeed in their farm business and to meet the global market demand.”

He added that meeting global market demand and food security was consistent with the vision of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency on food and nutrition security to produce enough food in the country.

Kyari, who stressed that the programme was also about promoting sustainable agribusiness practices that protect our natural resources and preserve the environment for future generations, said, “As we celebrate the resilience and integrity of our private sector, let us also remember that our success is interwoven with our commitment to sustainable practices and social responsibility. Let us prioritise inclusivity and ensure that the benefits of our economic progress reach every segment of society”.

The minister said millions of Nigerians were contributing to the nation’s gross domestic product, but noted that the sector faced numerous challenges, ranging from growth, productivity, post-harvest losses, and limited access to modern farming techniques and equipment.

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Kyari urged participants to use the opportunity to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and chart a course for a more prosperous and resilient agricultural sector to ensure food and nutrition security, ameliorate poverty, and drive sustainable development across Nigeria.