National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has organised a workshop focused on boosting agricultural development and enhancing food security in Nigeria.
The event, which held in Abuja yesterday, brought together key stakeholders including government officials, agricultural experts, farmers and investors to discuss innovative strategies for improving food production and sustainability.
At the event, the minister of state for agriculture and food security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, emphasised the ministry’s commitment to empowering local farmers and utilising modern technology to increase agricultural productivity.
He highlighted the importance of mechanised farming, improved irrigation systems and youth engagement in agriculture as critical factors in achieving food security.
“The goal is to ensure that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in food production and reduce reliance on food imports.
“Through initiatives such as land development, capacity building and access to funding, we aim to equip farmers with the necessary resources to thrive,” he stated.
Also speaking the executive secretary of NALDA, Mr. Cornelius Adebayo, stated that the government planned to develop five million hectares of land in the next five years and optimise land recovery to boost food production and exports.
Adebayo said the initiative, which had already taken off in Kwara, Ekiti, Benue, Plateau, Bauchi and Zamfara states, was expected to enhance food security and reduce poverty, malnutrition, and insecurity.
Participants at the workshop engaged in discussions on soil fertility management, value chain development, irrigation and agricultural financing.
The workshop made recommendations for increased investment in infrastructure, enhanced access to credit for farmers and stronger collaboration between the government and private sector to drive sustainable agricultural growth.
