Abuja: A Former Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbe, and the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, say that harnessing Nigeria’s agricultural potentials is crucial to the nation’s economic prosperity. They spoke at the Colloquium on Agriculture with the theme ‘Food and the Nation’ organised by the Etsu Nupe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organised to mark the Etsu’s 21st year on the throne, his 72nd birthday, and the launch of the Endowment Fund Launch for the Etsu Yahaya Foundation. Speaking on the topic ‘Food and the Nation,’ Ogbe commended the Etsu for choosing the topic, highlighting his connection to the people’s needs. He explained that agriculture has become an exclusive refuge for the poor and the old, with young persons showing little interest.
Ogbe emphasized the need to change this perception as hunger poses a significant threat to Nigeria. He noted that while the Federal Government is investing in the sector, not all sub-nationals are showing corresponding interest. He highlighted the importance of supporting agriculture with services like rural roads, small bridges, and tricycles for transportation.
Ogbe lamented Nigeria’s dwindling agricultural export, pointing out that Ghana leads in yam exports despite Nigeria being the largest producer. He advocated for mechanised farming and urged youths to embrace agriculture for Nigeria’s prosperity.
Bago shared his commitment to prioritizing agriculture and applauded President Bola Tinubu for ensuring food security. He stressed that Nigeria’s agricultural potentials, when fully harnessed, would lead to prosperity. Bago expressed pride in being termed a ‘farmer governor,’ aiming to bridge the gap between Generation Z and agriculture.
Bago noted the financial success of farmers in Niger State, stating their minimum wage often surpasses that of federal officials. He congratulated the Etsu on his 72nd birthday, acknowledging his leadership’s impact on the government’s stability and focus.
The Chairman of the Occasion, retired Col. Sanni Bello, represented by Brig.-Gen. Tunde Ogbeha, congratulated the Etsu and stressed the foundation’s role in empowering youths and ensuring food security across Nigeria.
The Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the celebration and emphasized the potential impact of reviving the Baro port and agriculture. He advocated for constitutional backing for traditional rulers to bridge gaps between government and citizens, facilitating effective program implementation. The Etsu’s foundation aims to support education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment.