The Federal Government has established a Joint Action Committee for Agriculture and Water Resources to address the issues of food security and inflation by coordinating the efforts of both ministries.
Senator Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture, made this announcement during the National Youth Convention in Abuja, which was organized by the Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative. Abdullahi stated that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu's food security agenda.
He explained that the government has launched dry-season farming initiatives, emphasizing that Nigeria cannot rely solely on the six-month rainy season to feed its population of over 200 million. The goal of the joint committee is to promote year-round farming by utilizing the country's abundant water resources and river basins to ensure food security and self-sufficiency.
"We have approved the Agriculture and Water Resource Joint Action Committee to focus on food security and promote dry-season farming in river basins," Abdullahi said. "By collaborating with the River Basin Development Authorities, we aim to boost farmer livelihoods, increase production, and encourage youth and private sector participation."
He noted that the Ministry of Water Resources would contribute valuable assets like water, land, and technical expertise, while the Ministry of Agriculture would supply seeds, inputs, and farm machinery essential for food production.
The minister also highlighted the challenges posed by recent floods in some states, attributing them to climate change. He emphasized the importance of dry-season farming, which offers better control over water and crop management.
Abdullahi concluded by saying that the president's Renewed Hope Agenda focuses on securing the future for the younger generation.
NAN
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