By Fatima Saka
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, and Agriculture and Food Security have announced a strengthened collaboration to eliminate food shortages nationwide.
This decision came after a confidential meeting between the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, and his counterpart from Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.
The gathering was also attended by the Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Rt Hon. Bello Mohammed Goronyo Esq., and the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Mohammed, along with representatives from the private sector on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, elaborated on the extensive discussions held on how the two ministries can collaborate effectively to eradicate hunger and combat food shortages and inflation in the nation.
The Minister emphasized that the collaboration between the two ministries aims to enhance food production in the country to ensure food security.
He informed the press that his Ministry possesses ample water resources for irrigation farming, land, and technical expertise, underscoring the necessity for the provision of seedlings and other inputs to facilitate the cultivation of its five hundred thousand irrigable lands across twelve River Basins, thereby making food accessible and affordable for citizens.
Prof. Utsev also mentioned the establishment of a Ministerial Joint Action Committee on Food Security during the meeting, involving the private sector to efficiently utilize all available resources for mechanized farming.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, on his part, assured that his ministry will consistently supply inputs and other farming incentives, as well as the required support to boost food production in the nation.
He guaranteed Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is dedicated to ensuring an adequate food supply for the populace and addressing other challenges confronting the country.
Representing the private sector, Mr. Magaji of African Farmer expressed contentment that the Federal Government has granted them the opportunity to contribute towards achieving food security in the country.
He pledged to bring about a substantial transformation in the agricultural sector before the year’s end.
