Godwin Obaseki of Edo says there is need for Nigeria to prioritise agricultural development to reshape its economic future.
By Nefishetu Yakubu
Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo says there is need for Nigeria to prioritise agricultural development to reshape its economic future.
Obaseki, who spoke at the inauguration
of the Edo Agricultural Hub on Tuesday in Benin, described the project as part of efforts to drive economic growth, ensure food security and foster sustainable development in the state.
He said that over the past eight years, his administration focused on building a foundation for a progressive and prosperous state; aiming to position Edo among Africa’s leading sub-nationals.
Obaseki said his administration had recorded success in de-risking agriculture, supporting farmers and prioritising investment in the sector to boost agriculture.
“I appreciate former Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; our achievements are partly due to continuing his successful policies
“We have laid a solid foundation through projects like the Edo State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Iguoriakhi.”
Obaseki stressed that agriculture was the backbone of Edo and Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to the GDP and was essential for turning around the country’s fortunes.
According to him, agriculture is crucial, especially in ensuring food security at a time when many Nigerians struggle to eat even one meal daily due to rising food cost.
To achieve self-sufficiency, the governor said, Nigeria must prioritise local food production rather than relying on imported food, which weakened national food security.
“It is troubling that Nigeria spends more than 500 million dollars yearly on imported dairy products and we have the capacity to develop our own dairy industry with proper leadership,” he said.
The governor explained that the hub aimed to consolidate all food production activities, housing 15 agencies and programmes into one central facility.
Mr Donatus Imaghodor, Chairman of the Edo State Cassava Growers Association, praised the hub for providing access to advanced farming techniques and modern processing methods.
Obaseki was joined at the event his deputy, Godwins Omobayo, Igbinedion, Edo 2024 governorship candidate Dr Asue Ighodalo, Edo PDP Chairman, Dr Anthony Aziegbemi, among other dignitaries.(NAN)
