Jonathan Ipaa, immediate past president of Middle Belt Journalists Forum (MBJF) says the forum is partnering with the Nigerian military to tackle food insecurity and boost agricultural production in the geopolitical zone.
The collaborative efforts, according to him, aim to leverage the expertise and resources of both parties to address the pressing challenges facing farmers in the region.
Speaking on the partnership in Jos, at the National Convention/Retreat on Civil Society/ Military Partnership in Mitigating Crisis in North-Central Nigeria, organised by the MBJF, Ipaa highlighted the importance of concerted efforts to revitalise the agricultural sector in the geopolitical zone.
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He emphasised that ensuring food security was not only essential for the well-being of communities but also crucial for national development.
“We are pleased to collaborate with the military to address the challenges facing farmers in the middle belt by working together, we can harness the region’s agricultural potential and contribute to food sufficiency in Nigeria.
“The partnership between MBJF and the military is expected to encompass various initiatives, such as enhancing food production and other vital support, the collaboration also aims to foster peace and stability in the middle belt by promoting dialogue and cooperation among different stakeholders in the agricultural sector”.
Ipaa added that the collaboration was expected to help mitigate the impact of insecurity and farmer-herder conflicts, which have significantly hampered agricultural activities in the region in recent years.
On his part, Chris Musa (Gen.), the chief of defence staff, represented by Mike Agi (Brig. Gen) reaffirmed the commitment of the armed forces to support socio-economic development initiatives in the area.
He stressed the importance of synergy between civil society organisations and security agencies in addressing the root causes of conflict and insecurity.
“We recognise the critical role of agriculture in the socio-economic development of the Middle Belt. Our collaboration with MBJF underscores our commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in this part of the country,” the army chief stated.
Also speaking, the governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang represented by Aliyu Samuel, saluted MBJF for the wonderful initiative towards partnering the civil society and the military in mitigating the crisis in North-Central Nigeria.
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Mutfwang, who was honoured with an award, appreciated the group and promised to render his support anytime called upon.
“It is a good initiative, my government is ready to partner with any group or individual that is ready to bring peace to the Plateau”.
Highlights of the event were the presentation of award of ‘Best Brand 2023’ to Aliko Dangote, chairman Dangote group of companies and other notable Nigerians as well as the swearing-in of new officials of the forum led by Mark Mayah.
