President Tinubu launches agricultural machinery initiative in Niger State
President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, inaugurated the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Programme in Niger State, underscoring his administration’s commitment to achieving food sufficiency and fostering sustainable economic growth by bolstering agricultural productivity.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Niger State government, aims to deploy state-of-the-art agricultural machinery and technology to catalyze large-scale agro-value chain development across the state.
In his address at the inauguration ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized the imperative for Nigeria to enhance its capacity not only to feed its population but also to generate surplus for export.
“We must rise to the occasion and address the challenges hindering our agricultural potential. Nigeria has the resources and capabilities to become a major player in the global food market,” President Tinubu stated.
Highlighting the need for comprehensive reforms, President Tinubu underscored the importance of addressing the longstanding issues plaguing the agricultural sector, including crop destruction by roaming livestock.
“We must reorient our approach to agriculture and provide sustainable solutions to longstanding challenges. By prioritizing modernization and innovation, we can overcome obstacles and unlock the full potential of our agricultural sector,” President Tinubu remarked.
President Tinubu also called on sub-national governments to take immediate action by implementing wage awards to alleviate the financial burden on citizens, pending an increase in the minimum wage at the federal level.
“I urge all governors to prioritize the welfare of their citizens and take proactive measures to address pressing issues such as hunger and unemployment. Together, we can create a more prosperous and equitable society,” President Tinubu urged.
Expressing gratitude for the President’s presence at the event, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago hailed the initiative as a significant milestone in the state’s quest for agricultural development. He also highlighted the importance of partnerships with other states to foster growth and prosperity.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, revealed that the federal government had secured financing agreements with international partners to facilitate the Green Imperative Programme. This initiative aims to establish mechanization hubs across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, thus revolutionizing agricultural practices nationwide.
Furthermore, the federal government has entered into agreements with renowned manufacturers to procure 10,000 units of tractors and implements over the next five years, under the Greener Hope Initiative.
During his visit to Niger State, President Tinubu also held discussions with former Nigerian Heads of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, exploring avenues for advancing the nation’s development agenda.
The inauguration of the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Programme marks a significant step towards achieving Nigeria’s agricultural transformation goals, as envisioned by President Tinubu’s administration.
