By Faridat Salifu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has tied Nigeria’s future agricultural transformation to the broader national fight against insecurity, pledging renewed efforts to strengthen farming productivity while vowing to “crush” banditry and terrorism that he described as major economic and social obstacles.
Tinubu made the commitments on Monday, February 9, 2026, during the second edition of the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference in Abuja, where he outlined key priorities of the federal government’s Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030.
Addressing governors, ministers, lawmakers and development partners, Tinubu said Nigeria is at a pivotal moment that requires bold agricultural reforms and decisive security action in order to unlock inclusive growth and sustainable national development.
“Insecurity remains a major hindrance to our economy,” the President said, describing banditry and terrorism as threats that are “not part of our culture” and must be defeated through strengthened security forces and coordinated federal‑state response.
“We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry… We will win with determination and resilience,” he added.
Tinubu linked the security challenge directly to economic performance, warning that failure to address it urgently would undermine investment, agriculture and livelihoods.
He commended state governments particularly those in Borno, Katsina and Kaduna for their efforts in defending communities and preserving freedom and commonwealth.
On agriculture, the President said the government is accelerating programmes to enhance productivity and value‑chain development, including plans to establish seven agricultural mechanisation zones across the country to boost output and modernise farming practices.
Speaking on the need for economic transformation, Tinubu said the Renewed Hope plan prioritises economic diversification, human capital development, private sector‑led growth and climate resilience, with a focus on bottom‑up implementation down to the ward level.
The national conference, themed “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development”, has brought together government officials and development partners to align policies and actions that advance macroeconomic stability and strengthen security and agricultural sectors.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the NEC, emphasised the importance of translating policy commitments into tangible outcomes for Nigerians.
He said inclusive growth hinges on collaboration across federal, state and private‑sector actors.
Analysts say Tinubu’s dual focus on security and agriculture reflects a broader policy shift towards linking peace and economic productivity — a view shared by many stakeholders who see insecurity as a major drag on farming activity, trade and rural livelihoods.
