PeakNews Online
Damaturu, Yobe State — President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing food security, creating jobs, and diversifying Nigeria’s economy through agricultural initiatives.
On Saturday, he launched the Yobe State Agricultural Empowerment Programme in Damaturu, aiming to stimulate economic growth and ensure food security across the nation.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu outlined the programme’s objectives, which include providing agricultural machinery and tools to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector. “Food is the heart of security in every society,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the critical role of agriculture in national development and security.
He highlighted the administration’s commitment to modernizing the agricultural sector, including the livestock industry. The newly approved Ministry of Livestock Development aims to improve livestock production and change the narrative of the industry. Tinubu also noted the shift towards modern farming techniques, stressing that reliance on rain-fed agriculture is outdated.
The empowerment programme includes the distribution of 100 Zoom Lion Tractors, various farm implements, and resources such as mini-rigs for tube wells, solar water pumps, and fertilizers. This initiative aims to boost agricultural output and engage more Nigerians in the economic sector.
President Tinubu addressed security concerns, assuring that the government is taking drastic measures to make farmlands safe and accessible nationwide. Vice President Shettima, representing the President, visited the Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashim II Ibn Umar Al-Amin El-Kanemi, to convey Tinubu’s high regard for Yobe State and its people.
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State praised the Tinubu administration’s support and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to agricultural development. He highlighted various initiatives, including the revival of the 2000-hectare Lava Irrigation Scheme and the establishment of four Sesame Seeds processing factories.
Dignitaries at the event included Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, APC Deputy National Chairman (North) Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, APC Deputy National Chairman (South) Chief Emma Eneukwu, Senator Osita Izunaso, former Senate President Senator Ahmed Lawan, and other prominent figures.
The programme underscores the administration’s efforts to modernize agriculture and improve food security, marking a significant step towards achieving Nigeria’s economic and developmental goals.
