Ministers of Water Resources, Sanitation, and Agriculture Collaborate to Ensure Food Sufficiency in Nigeria

In a bid to address the persistent food shortage in Nigeria, the Ministers of Water Resources and Sanitation, and Agriculture and Food Security, have reinforced their collaborative efforts. This development came after a closed-door meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja, involving key stakeholders from both ministries and the private sector.

The meeting, attended by Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Barr Bello Mohammed Goronyo, and Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Mohammed, focused on synergizing efforts to combat hunger and inflation.

Addressing journalists post-meeting, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev emphasized the extensive discussions on how best to harmonize the operations of both ministries to ensure food security. He highlighted the availability of abundant water resources, land for irrigation farming, and technical expertise within his ministry, stating that the primary requirement now is the provision of seedlings and other agricultural inputs. These resources would enable the cultivation of 500,000 irrigable lands across twelve River Basins, thereby making food more accessible and affordable.

During the meeting, a Ministerial Joint Action on Food Security was established, involving private sector participation to maximize the resources for mechanized farming. This initiative aims to scale up food production and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.

Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, reiterated his ministry’s commitment to providing essential farming inputs and support to boost food production. He assured the public that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is dedicated to addressing food security and other pressing national challenges.

Mr. Magaji, representing the private sector through African Farmer, expressed optimism about the Federal Government’s initiative. He pledged the private sector’s commitment to transforming the agricultural sector and achieving significant progress by the end of the year.

This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards resolving Nigeria’s food shortage, leveraging both governmental and private sector resources to ensure a stable and secure food supply for all citizens.

Terhemen Oraduen
Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation

6th August 2024