Christian clerics have been urged to educate youth on the need to embrace agro-preneurship to contribute to sustainable development.
Dr Vincent Paul, a senior lecturer in the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies at Nasarawa State University, stated this during a special church service commemorating Nigeria’s Independence Day in Keffi.
He said getting the youths to harness the potential of agro-preneurship will, in the long run, lead to food security and economic development.
In a paper titled, “Church’s role in harnessing the potential of agro-preneurship for sustainable nation building”, the university don said the church could help redefine patriotism and nation-building among the youths as the country celebrates its 64th independence.
The don who expressed worries that many Nigerians, especially the youth, are moving away from agriculture in favour of urban-based jobs, contributing to rural depopulation and food insecurity, explained that the church, with its outreach to families and communities, can help shift this narrative by promoting agro-preneurship as a viable, fulfilling, and patriotic career for young people.
“As we celebrate the nation at 64, the issue of patriotism is apt. The concept has evolved in modern times towards contributing to sustainable development. One significant way to foster this redefined patriotism is by harnessing the potential of agro-preneurship.
“The church, with its moral and societal influence, can play a pivotal role in this process. Encouraging the application of entrepreneurial principles to agriculture aligns with this vision as it seeks to promote food security, create jobs, and encourage sustainable agricultural practices. In many developing countries, the church often acts as a social anchor, bringing people together and providing moral guidance,” he said.
He noted that by embracing agro-preneurship as a key part of its mission, the church could inspire individuals and communities to view agriculture not only as a means of livelihood but as a patriotic duty towards nation-building.
He also said the church’s teachings on stewardship—caring for the earth as God’s creation—align with sustainable agriculture principles.
“The Church can advocate for responsible land use, environmental conservation, and sustainable farming methods, helping to combat environmental degradation and ensure that resources are available for future generations,” he pointed out.
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