FG emphasizes food security as cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic stability

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated that ensuring food security is paramount to the nation’s economic stability, national independence, and poverty reduction efforts.

This assertion was made by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the Quarterly Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement Session.

The event, convened by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, took place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja on Friday.

Minister Idris highlighted the critical role of agriculture within President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader economic reform agenda.

He noted that the administration is actively implementing reforms and programs designed to bolster agricultural productivity and strengthen food supply chains.

“Food security is national security; a nation that feeds itself strengthens its independence, stabilizes prices, creates jobs, and reduces poverty,” the Minister stated.
The engagement session itself, according to Minister Idris, exemplifies President Tinubu’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.

According to the statement released by his aide, Idris emphasized the govt’s dedication to keeping Nigerians informed and involved in the policy-making process.

“Governance must not operate in isolation from the people; it must be open, responsive, and anchored on dialogue.
“Today’s engagement demonstrates this administration’s commitment to keeping Nigerians informed and involved,” Idris affirmed.

Addressing the economic landscape upon the administration’s inception, the Minister acknowledged significant challenges, including fiscal pressures, subsidy burdens, and exchange rate distortions.

He underscored that decisive reforms were necessary to stabilize the economy and position it for sustainable growth.
These “difficult but necessary decisions” are already yielding positive outcomes, with improvements in government revenue, renewed investor confidence, and enhanced engagement with international partners.

Furthermore, Minister Idris highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance security in farming communities and transportation corridors, which are crucial for farmers to return to their fields and boost agricultural output.

“The administration is also making substantial investments in infrastructure development, encompassing roads, rail, power, and digital connectivity, to support economic expansion and improve market access for agricultural produce nationwide.
“Human capital development remains a key priority, with initiatives such as the student loan program, improvements in primary healthcare services, and targeted social investment programs aimed at supporting vulnerable households and small businesses”.

Minister Idris commended Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, for organizing the stakeholders’ engagement forum, recognizing it as a vital platform for dialogue between the govt and the citizens on policies aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s food security framework.

He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation’s role in bridging the gap between govt policies and public understanding, ensuring Nigerians are well-informed about the administration’s objectives and progress.
“Communication is not propaganda; it is accountability. It ensures that citizens understand government initiatives and have the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback,” he added.

He urged all stakeholders, including development partners, civil society organizations, and the media, to continue supporting the government’s efforts to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector and build a more resilient food system.

Following Minister Idris, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, elaborated on the Federal Government’s intensified efforts to transform Nigeria’s agricultural and food systems.
This is being achieved through targeted programs, strategic partnerships, and sustained investments across key agricultural value chains.

He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with farmers, devt partners, the private sector, and other stakeholders to enhance agricultural productivity, improve value chains, and ensure food remains available, accessible, and affordable for all Nigerians.

“Since assuming office, this administration has made food security a top priority, acknowledging the critical role it plays in maintaining national stability and sovereignty,” Kyari stated.
The Minister concluded by noting that ongoing initiatives in fertilizer distribution, mechanization, improved seeds, irrigation, and farmer support programs are already contributing to increased agricultural output and strengthening Nigeria’s food security framework.

Attendees included: Senator Abubakar Kyari (Minister of Agriculture and Food Security), Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi (Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security).

Also, Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi (Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security), and other senior dignitaries.