The newly appointed Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, officially assumed office on Monday with a resolute commitment to ensuring food security for Nigerians while also harnessing the potential of agricultural exports to bolster the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
Addressing the media at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security headquarters in Abuja, Minister Kyari unveiled his vision for his tenure and emphasized that Nigeria possessed the capability to achieve the set objectives. He expressed these sentiments during a brief reception ceremony organized by the ministry, attended by Minister of State, Aliyu Abdullahi, and dignitaries including the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum.
Minister Kyari articulated, “The prevailing challenges are evident, with hunger and food insecurity looming large over our nation. Our commitment extends beyond securing sustenance for our citizens; it encompasses leveraging our inherent potential to export food products and thereby contribute to our foreign exchange reserves. While adversities such as insecurity and flooding pose significant hurdles, we are determined to overcome them.”
Highlighting the crucial role of President Bola Tinubu’s political will, Kyari affirmed, “We acknowledge the formidable challenge ahead of us, yet it remains surmountable. We draw strength from the unwavering support of President Tinubu. Our objectives encompass not only domestic food security but also seizing the untapped potential to become a food exporter.”
Accompanying the ministers to the ministry was the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, who provided valuable insights into addressing Nigeria’s food insecurity in the long term. Stressing the necessity for sustainable strategies, Zulum remarked, “Nigerians deserve more than short-term solutions. Our nation requires carefully formulated long and medium-term plans that can withstand the test of time.”
Zulum advocated for investments in commercial agriculture and the adoption of modern agricultural practices such as irrigation and green technology. He cautioned, “Merely providing short-term relief measures will not eradicate our issues. The burgeoning population coupled with dwindling food supplies necessitates immediate action. Our focus must shift to commercial agriculture, incorporating modern techniques and technologies.”
As the nation grapples with escalating food security concerns, the newly appointed Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, stands poised to steer Nigeria toward sustainable solutions, harnessing the potential of agricultural production and exports to secure a brighter future.
