In a groundbreaking announcement, the President of the Sorghum Farmers Association of Nigeria (SOFAN), Alhaji Lawal Gada, has declared that Nigeria has achieved self-sufficiency in sorghum production.
Gada made the commendation during a press conference held on Saturday in Abuja, where he addressed newsmen and highlighted the significance of this achievement.
Gada expressed his delight at the timing of the declaration, emphasizing the challenges faced by global food supply chains, including Nigeria, amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and disruptions caused by the Ukraine/Russian war.
He lauded the Nigerian President for taking action to safeguard the nation’s food security and promote self-reliance in food production.
“The declaration of the state of emergency on food security will greatly enhance Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in food production and make the nation more food secure,” Gada stated.
He further reflected on the negative impact that recent global events and policies, such as the border closure imposed by the previous administration, had on the food supply chain.
Highlighting the potential benefits of the declaration, Gada emphasized that it would not only insulate Nigeria from the adverse effects of global disruptions but also incentivize increased investment in agricultural and agro-industrial activities.
Additionally, he emphasized the creation of both direct and indirect employment opportunities, which would contribute to boosting the nation’s economy and strengthening its external reserves.
Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in sorghum production was also heralded as a significant milestone.
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Gada proudly shared that Nigeria is currently exporting sorghum to neighboring countries, including Niger Republic and other West African nations.
He praised sorghum as a resilient crop that easily adapts to climate change, making it a crucial factor in ensuring food production amidst environmental challenges.
Furthermore, Gada emphasized the multifaceted nature of sorghum, noting its transformation from a food crop to an industrial and cash crop.
He appealed to the Federal Government for increased support and interventions to harness the full potential of sorghum, including the timely supply of fertilizers, pesticides, and other necessary inputs.
In addition to addressing the challenges within the agricultural sector, Gada called for attention to be given to farming communities affected by floods in 2022 and previous years.
He also urged the government to prioritize measures to enhance national security, which would contribute to bolstering food production across the country.
“We are ready to partner with the Federal Government to effectively facilitate the realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu,” Gada affirmed. “This partnership is crucial in achieving the desired impact of the declaration of the state of emergency on food security.”
As Nigeria celebrates its self-sufficiency in sorghum production, the declaration of a state of emergency on food security marks a significant step forward in ensuring the nation’s food self-reliance and resilience in the face of global challenges.
With the support of the Federal Government and increased investments, Nigeria is poised to strengthen its position as a leading agricultural nation in the region, contributing to both national and regional food security.
