From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
As the protest against “Hunger and Bad Governance” is ongoing by some Nigerians, especially the youths across the country, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari has called on the farmers and other citizens to focus on their farming activities rather than to involve in the protest, but they should give the government more time to address the prices of food items and other challenges in the country.
“In a time where the echoes of protest reverberate across the country, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari implore farmers to ponder the profound impact of dedicated focus on their farming activities.
“As food prices begin to exhibit a decline, an opportune moment unfolds for us to steer our efforts towards bolstering food security in our beloved nation.”
The Minister in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday to newsmen extended a heartfelt appeal to all Nigerians, particularly the vibrant youth and dedicated farmers, urging them to veer away from any temptation to partake in protests against the government.
Instead, he calls upon them to redirect their energies towards the crucial agricultural endeavours to fortify the nation’s food security.
Acknowledging the challenges that many have faced due to the surge in food prices,” the government has proactively initiated strategic policies and impactful programs through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, under the esteemed leadership of President Tinubu.
These measures he said have already begun to yield tangible results, evident in the noticeable decline in food prices that has been observed nationwide.
According to Senator Abubakar, President Tinubu has graciously sanctioned numerous intervention programs aimed at providing steadfast support to farmers in their agricultural pursuits.
“One such intervention is the ongoing distribution of farming inputs under the NAGS-AP Program, designed to alleviate the burdens faced by smallholder farmers in accessing essential agricultural inputs.”
Additionally, the Ministry under the Minister’s guidance has facilitated the distribution of assorted fertilizers, generously provided by the Central Bank, to state governors for onward distribution to farmers across our great nation. Coupled with favourable weather conditions and anticipated rainfall, this year’s harvest is poised to further drive down food prices in the market, a welcome development for all.
Reports from various major producing states indicate a decline in the prices of essential food items such as potatoes, maize, millet, and vegetables, hinting at a promising trend that affirms the efficacy of our collective efforts towards enhancing food security.
“Let us heed the Minister’s call to action and concentrate our energies on nurturing our agricultural lands rather than engaging in protests that may sow seeds of discord and anarchy. Our focus should be on cultivating prosperity through food production, advocating dialogue over protest, and fostering negotiation instead of confrontation.”
Together, let us sow the seeds of unity, dialogue, and progress as we work tirelessly to fortify our nation’s agricultural sector and ensure a future brimming with abundance for all.