By Faridat Salifu
Former Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, has identified agriculture as a critical tool for addressing Nigeria’s growing insecurity challenges.
Speaking during a visit to Maraba Gaate settlement Farm Gate in Nasarawa State on Tuesday, Amaechi said strategic investments in farming could help tackle unemployment and reduce crime.
He argued that improving the agricultural sector would provide jobs for young people and discourage involvement in criminal activities.
“The best way to fight insecurity in the country is to invest in agriculture,” he said.
Amaechi stressed that beyond funding, Nigeria must adopt modern farming techniques and mechanised systems to make agriculture more productive and attractive to the youth.
He noted that reliance on outdated, subsistence practices continues to limit output and economic potential in the sector.
The former minister also pointed to the need for deliberate policies that will support large-scale farming and encourage private sector participation.
Amaechi, who expressed satisfaction with activities at the farm, said similar initiatives should be expanded nationwide to boost food production and stabilise communities.
He added that he is willing to invest in agriculture and replicate the model he introduced at the Songhai Farms in Rivers State during his time as governor.
