Vice-President Kashim Shettima arrived in Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, on Saturday to launch an ambitious agriculture empowerment programme designed to bolster food security in the state and across Nigeria. The initiative underscores the federal government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of farmers.
Shettima, accompanied by Governor Umara Zulum of Borno, landed at the Muhammadu Buhari International Cargo Airport in Damaturu. They were received by a host of dignitaries, including the Governors of Yobe, Imo, and Bauchi States. Also present were former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Yobe Deputy Governor Alhaji Idi Gubana, and Speaker of the Yobe House of Assembly Buba Chiroma-Mashio. The presence of such high-profile figures highlights the importance of the programme and the collective effort to address food security challenges in the region.
Alhaji Abdullahi Bego, Yobe’s Commissioner for Home Affairs, Information, and Culture, described the programme as “very massive.” He emphasized that it aims to benefit thousands of farmers across Yobe’s 17 local government areas and 178 electoral wards. The initiative is expected to make a significant impact on agricultural productivity and economic stability within the state.
“The objectives of the programme include improving agricultural activities through the distribution and deployment of modern agricultural equipment,” Bego explained. “We aim to enhance food security and economic viability among our populace.”
This comprehensive approach involves providing farmers with the necessary tools and training to modernize their farming practices. By introducing advanced agricultural equipment and techniques, the programme seeks to increase crop yields, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure a more stable and sustainable food supply.
The agriculture empowerment programme is not only about providing equipment but also includes a range of support services such as training and capacity-building workshops. These are designed to equip farmers with the skills needed to maximize the benefits of modern agricultural technology. The programme also includes initiatives to improve access to markets, ensuring that farmers can sell their produce at fair prices.
Vice-President Shettima, in his address, highlighted the federal government’s dedication to supporting agricultural development as a means to ensure food security and stimulate economic growth. He noted that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader agenda of fostering national growth and development through strategic investments in key sectors such as agriculture.
Shettima also underscored the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments, as well as the private sector, to achieve the programme’s goals. He called on all stakeholders to support the initiative and work together to overcome the challenges facing the agricultural sector.
The launch of this programme comes at a critical time, as Nigeria continues to face food security challenges exacerbated by factors such as climate change, population growth, and economic instability. By investing in agriculture, the government aims to create a more resilient food system capable of meeting the nutritional needs of its growing population.
In addition to enhancing food security, the agriculture empowerment programme is expected to contribute to job creation and poverty reduction in Yobe State. By boosting agricultural productivity and creating new economic opportunities, the initiative aims to improve the overall quality of life for the state’s residents.
The successful implementation of this programme could serve as a model for other states in Nigeria, demonstrating the potential of strategic agricultural investments to drive sustainable development.
