Some stakeholders in the agricultural sector have praised the Federal Government’s decision to suspend tariffs and customs duties on imported maize, cowpeas, and other essential food items to curb the ongoing food crisis.
The Spokesperson of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON), Adebayo Oluwaseun, specifically commended the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, for implementing policies aimed at boosting food security and reducing high food prices.
Oluwaseun stated that the Coalition acknowledges and appreciates the Minister’s efforts, noting that his leadership since his appointment has positively impacted the agricultural sector. He highlighted the Minister’s role in revolutionizing the sector and ensuring food security for Nigerians.
The Minister’s commitment to the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Plan (NATIP) has been instrumental in modernizing the agricultural space through technological advancements and empowering smallholder farmers nationwide.
“It is with great pride and a profound sense of optimism that we, the members of COCSON, gather here today to applaud the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Alhaji Mohammed Mahmood Abubakar, for his exceptional leadership and the transformative impact he has had on the agricultural landscape of our beloved country, Nigeria,” Oluwaseun said.
“Since his appointment, Minister Abubakar has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to driving positive change, implementing bold initiatives, and positioning the agricultural sector as a key driver of economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria.”
The Minister has also focused on empowering women and youth in the agricultural sector, providing specialized capacity building, access to financing, and opportunities for underrepresented groups to contribute to the sector’s growth and development.
“The Minister’s unwavering support for women and youth in agriculture has been truly transformative. By investing in their skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit, he has not only empowered these crucial demographics but also paved the way for a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural ecosystem in Nigeria,” Oluwaseun added.
“The coalition is confident that under your stewardship, the sector will continue to thrive, contributing to the country’s food security, economic prosperity, and sustainable development. Kyari’s dedication, innovation, and tireless efforts have truly set a new standard for agricultural leadership in Nigeria. We, the members of COCSON, pledge our unwavering support and commitment to working alongside the Minister to further strengthen the agricultural sector and realize our collective vision of a prosperous, food-secure, and environmentally sustainable Nigeria.”
COCSON Secretary, Fatima Usman, also praised the impact of NATIP under Minister Abubakar’s leadership, noting, “Through this innovative plan, we have witnessed a remarkable increase in crop yields, improved access to cutting-edge farming techniques, and the creation of numerous job opportunities for our youth in the agricultural value chain.”
