The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, operating under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket Programme, has engaged critical stakeholders to strategize for the implementation of the second phase of the 2023/2024 dry season farming. The meeting, held in Abuja, brought together key participants in the agricultural sector to discuss and plan for the cultivation of essential crops, aligning with the directive of President Bola Tinubu.
The stakeholders, including the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, convened to ensure the successful implementation of the dry season farming initiative. The goal of the program is to enhance food production, drive down food inflation, and boost overall agricultural productivity.
In his address at the meeting, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, outlined the objective of the forum. He emphasized the need to review the implementation of the 2023/2024 dry season wheat production in the 15 wheat-producing states, leveraging their comparative advantages. The forum also served as a preparatory meeting to plan the second phase of dry season farming for rice, maize, and cassava.
“The objective of the forum is to review the implementation of the 2023/2024 dry season wheat production implemented in the 15 wheat-producing states based on their comparative advantage,” said Minister Kyari. He further highlighted the forum’s role in charting a new course for the upcoming phases of dry season farming, focusing on key crops vital to Nigeria’s food security.
The strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders underscore the government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and self-sufficiency in food production. As the second phase of the dry season farming initiative takes shape, it is anticipated that these efforts will contribute to increased agricultural output, improved food availability, and a positive impact on the nation’s economy.