By Yemi Olakitan
In order to achieve its aims of self-sufficiency and food security, the Federal Government has promised to ban the smuggling of food out of the country.
During a working visit to the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Ibadan, Oyo State, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Mohammad Abubakar, announced this. He also stated that the government would be collaborating with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other agencies to prevent the smuggling of food out of Nigeria.
The minister emphasised the need to stop food smuggling and added, “We are doing a number of things, one of which is dry season farming, which starts next month and which we will intensify. We also make sure that none of the organisations we cooperate with—such as customs—permit the smuggling of food outside of the nation.
We don’t want a food scarcity, thus this is why. Right now, there is no food scarcity. I’m telling you unequivocally.
The minister said that agriculture has gone digital and added that research institutes have a lot to offer in this direction. He claimed that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration has done a fantastic job of reorganising the agricultural industry.
“Today, science, research, and innovation are the cornerstones of agriculture. We are referring to using smart agriculture, or digital agriculture that is based on technology, in agriculture as a whole. All research institutions, including NIHORT, have a lot to offer. The variety of goods this institute is generating is impressive.
“Just now, I came across an orange tree that will bear three different varieties of oranges on a single branch. “We just acquired a waiver to employ more researchers, developers, and people of science origin that would help to increase research and development,” he assured, adding, “I am delighted that I come here.
Dr. Lawal Attanda, Director/Chief Executive Officer of NIHORT, welcomed the minister and thanked him for his assistance in helping the organisation function well and advance more quickly.
“Over the years, an insufficient supply of electricity has negatively impacted our activities,” he stated. For instance, during the periods of unstable power supply, we noted losses of significant quantities of genetic materials that were essential to our research efforts.
“Thanks to your efforts, the presidential waiver was made feasible, which allowed the institute to hire crucial staff members to increase its manpower. Since the institute hasn’t been able to accomplish this in the previous seven years, we especially appreciate this. We appreciate the chance to participate in the management of the gene bank and creation of genetic capacity.
