President Bola Tinubu announced a groundbreaking agricultural initiative aimed at boosting food production and empowering small-holder farmers across the country.
In a nationwide broadcast titled “After Darkness Comes the Glorious Dawn, on Monday, the president said program will allocate N50 billion to cultivate 150,000 hectares each of rice and maize, along with an additional N50 billion earmarked for cultivating 100,000 hectares of wheat and cassava.
Tinubu also approved a N200 billion intervention to bolster food security and support the agricultural sector.
The initiative aims to ensure affordable prices of food items and has gained the support of farmers’ associations and stakeholders in the agriculture value-chain.
The intervention plan includes the release of 200,000 metric tonnes of grains from strategic reserves to farmers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Additionally, 225,000 metric tonnes of fertilisers, seedlings, and other inputs will be provided to farmers committed to the nation’s food security agenda.
The government remains steadfast in its plan to cultivate 500,000 hectares of farmland for year-round farming, with N200 billion out of the approved N500 billion by the National Assembly being allocated for this purpose.
President Tinubu highlighted the significance of this expansive agricultural program, emphasizing its focus on supporting small-holder farmers while also collaborating with established private sector players in the Agric business.
By leveraging the expertise of Development Finance Institutions, commercial banks, and microfinance banks, the government aims to develop a viable and appropriate transaction structure that benefits all stakeholders involved.
The President’s vision for the agricultural sector aims to achieve not only increased food production but also economic growth and improved livelihoods for farmers.
The allocation of significant funds for the cultivation of essential crops like rice, maize, wheat, and cassava reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and enhancing the nation’s agricultural output.
With the inclusion of wheat and cassava in the program, the government seeks to diversify the agricultural sector and tap into the potential of these crops for both domestic consumption and export opportunities.
President Tinubu’s announcement has garnered support from various agricultural stakeholders, who view this as a strategic move to strengthen the nation’s food production capacity and reduce reliance on food imports.
The program’s inclusive approach, involving both small-holder farmers and established private sector players, is expected to foster collaboration and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The president assured the public that the government would work closely with relevant institutions to ensure the successful implementation of the program.
By mobilizing financial resources, technical expertise, and market linkages, the government aims to create a conducive environment for farmers to thrive and contribute to the overall growth of the agricultural sector.
Experts in the agricultural field have welcomed the initiative, citing its potential to enhance productivity, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in rural communities.
The investment in large-scale farming and support for small-holder farmers is seen as a balanced approach to driving agricultural development and food security in the country.
As the nation eagerly awaits further details on the program’s implementation, stakeholders in the agricultural sector express optimism that this bold initiative will pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural industry in Nigeria.