By Abbas Nazil
Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has declared that Nigeria, blessed with abundant agricultural resources, should not be grappling with poverty.
Speaking at the Taraba International Investment Summit held at the Taraba State Banquet Hall, TY Danjuma House in Jalingo, the state capital, Governor Bago stressed that the country’s wealth in natural resources and fertile land is enough to lift its citizens out of economic hardship if properly harnessed.
According to Governor Bago, Nigeria’s agricultural potential remains largely untapped, despite the country having all necessary elements for successful and continuous agricultural production.
He emphasized that with fertile land, abundant water, consistent sunlight, and a large workforce, Nigeria can farm all year round, unlike many developed nations that are limited by seasonal constraints.
“People in Europe can barely farm for three months in a year, but we can farm 24/7, 365 days a year.
It means we have no business in poverty,” Bago stated, adding that the country’s potential for food production is not only high but consistent, offering a pathway out of widespread poverty and economic hardship.
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Highlighting Taraba State as a case in point, the Niger State Governor noted that all critical factors of production are present and in abundance in the state.
He referenced Aliko Dangote’s remarks, which similarly recognized Taraba’s natural endowments, reinforcing the view that Nigeria’s agricultural wealth could transform its economic landscape.
Describing himself as the “Chief Farmer of Nigeria,” Governor Bago urged both the Federal Government and private sector stakeholders to take immediate and coordinated steps toward investing in agriculture.
He called on sub-national governments to take a proactive role by facilitating development initiatives and creating an enabling environment for agricultural enterprises to flourish.
Bago also advocated for strategic partnerships between state governments and large construction companies, suggesting that such firms could deploy their equipment to support large-scale land cultivation and mechanized farming.
He pointed out that enabling mass agricultural production would not only create jobs but also increase food security and economic stability.
Governor Bago emphasized the importance of government acting as a facilitator, focusing on infrastructure development, asset investment, and creating the right conditions for business growth.
By doing so, he maintained, Nigeria can fully leverage its agricultural strengths to drive economic progress and eliminate poverty.
