Etsu Nupe and chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has charged Nigerians to harness the country’s agricultural potential, particularly in Niger State, and urged the youth to be actively involved in farming.
The monarch made the call during the celebration of his 21st anniversary on the throne alongside his 72nd birthday and the launch of the Etsu Yahaya Foundation Endowment Fund in Abuja yesterday.
The event, attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria, featured a colloquium on agriculture with the theme; “Food and the Nation,” aimed at revitalising Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“We are blessed with enormous agricultural resources that can significantly boost our GDP if properly utilized,” he stated.
He urged Nigerian youths to embrace farming, saying, “There is everything good in this country. Our youth have no reason to go abroad in search of greener pastures.”
The monarch also called on the federal government to prioritise the completion of the Baro Inland Port, describing it as a critical project for unlocking economic opportunities in the North.
“This is essential to unlock the vast economic potential of the northern states and the entire nation. I am sure the former governor is also mobilising investors and development partners to ensure that Baro Port becomes a reality under his New Nigeria Agenda
“We must not forget that Baro Port has historical significance because it is regarded as one of the earliest settlements for the colonial Governor General, Lord Frederick Lugard in 1912.
“The town also has significant tourism potential that can benefit the government’s revenue drive. So let us pay more attention and fully harness the potential of Baro Port for the socio-economic transformation of the state and the nation as a whole,” he said.
He advocated for a constitutional role for traditional rulers in governance, emphasising their importance as a bridge between the government and the people.
“We are all aware that as traditional leaders, we are the bridge between the government and the governed, often mending fences when things go wrong or when there are misunderstandings.
“If we are properly and actively involved in the art of governance, it will make life easier for everyone, as we will be in a good position to effectively play our roles and continuously mobilise the people to support the implementation of government programs and projects. We are critical stakeholders, with the natural advantage of being the closest to our people,” he said.
The Etsu Nupe commended Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago for his developmental strides, stating, “You have started very well, steadily changing the narrative of Niger State. May Allah continue to guide you.”
The endowment fund launch for the Etsu Yahaya Foundation was a highlight of the event. The foundation aims to support education, healthcare, agriculture and youth empowerment.
“This foundation is my legacy to humanity. I pray it outlives me and continues to serve our people,” he said. The Etsu Nupe expressed gratitude to his people for their support over his 21-year reign and prayed for continued peace and prosperity in Nigeria.
The event was graced by high-profile figures, including representatives of the Sultan of Sokoto, the Olu of Ife, former ministers, military leaders and lawmakers. Major General Tunde Ogbeha (rtd.) represented the occasion’s chairman, Colonel Sani Bello (rtd).
