The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has made food security a top priority for his administration.
Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, shared that since President Tinubu’s inauguration in May 2023, the government has launched several initiatives to address the nation’s food security challenges.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Abdullahi emphasized that food security is central to the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He stressed that food security is not only vital for the country’s economy but also plays a crucial role in poverty reduction and promoting gender inclusivity.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply committed to improving food security. His vision is clear: he wants to ensure that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry,” Abdullahi stated. “This is a goal we are determined to achieve, and we are working tirelessly toward it.”
Food prices in Nigeria have skyrocketed in recent years, putting pressure on millions of households. In response, the government and local authorities have introduced various measures, including the distribution of palliatives to support vulnerable populations.
In the months following his election, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency on food security, pledging to tackle the root causes of food scarcity. He outlined plans to enhance farm security and ensure farmers can work without fear of attacks.
“We will work with our security forces to safeguard farmlands and ensure farmers can return to their fields safely,” President Tinubu assured the public. He also highlighted the role of the Central Bank of Nigeria in financing the agricultural value chain, further supporting the sector’s growth. Additionally, 500,000 hectares of land have been mapped for cultivation to increase the availability of arable land.
With these comprehensive actions, the Tinubu administration aims to build a stronger, more resilient food system in Nigeria.
