Agric minister, Kyari begs farmers to focus on farming amid h@rdship protests

Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, has begged Nigerian farmers to concentrate on their farming activities rather than participating in protests.

This was made known in a statement via the Minister’s X page on Thursday, 1st of August, 2024.

The statement reads:

“In these times when the call for protests echoes across our nation, I, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, urge our farmers to reflect on the profound impact of dedicating their focus to farming activities. As food prices begin to decline, we have a unique opportunity to bolster food security in our beloved nation.

“I extend a heartfelt appeal to all Nigerians, especially our vibrant youth and dedicated farmers, to resist the temptation to protest against the government. Instead, I encourage everyone to channel their energies towards crucial agricultural endeavors that fortify our nation’s food security.

“We acknowledge the challenges many have faced due to the surge in food prices. The government, under the esteemed leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has proactively initiated strategic policies and impactful programs through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. These measures are already yielding tangible results, evident in the noticeable decline in food prices observed nationwide.

“Our President has sanctioned numerous intervention programs to support 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.

“Furthermore, under my guidance, the Ministry 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 favorable weather conditions and anticipated rainfall, this year’s harvest is poised to further drive down food prices, 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, affirming the efficacy of our collective efforts towards enhancing food security.

“Let us heed this 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.” [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>>