Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has applauded the federal government’s declaration of a national emergency regarding food security.
The declaration was made by President Tinubu, who was represented by the secretary to the government of the federation, George Akume, during the opening of the 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja on Monday.
Tinubu emphasised the need for expanded irrigation infrastructure and participatory water resource management throughout the country, highlighting that Nigeria possesses over 3.1 million hectares of irrigable land situated around key river basins, such as the Niger and Benue. It is worth noting that Tinubu made a similar announcement in July 2024 after a meeting with agricultural stakeholders, where he directed the immediate release of fertilisers and grains to farmers and households to alleviate the difficulties arising from the removal of petrol subsidies.
In a statement yesterday, Ndume asserted that “providing the necessary impetus for food production would significantly reduce the prices of agricultural produce in the market.” He also advocated for the establishment of a Department of Government Efficiency, which would operate under the direct supervision of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The lawmaker stated that this new department would ensure that ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) adhere strictly to budget implementations and promote effective government policies.
Additionally, Ndume urged state governors to follow the example set by Borno State governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, who has already declared a state of emergency on food security in Borno. Zulum has provided farmers with thousands of tractors, irrigation equipment, and fertiliser at subsidised prices to enhance food production.
Beyond the emergency on food security, Senator Ndume appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make similar declarations regarding the economy and security to stimulate growth. He stated, “The federal government must focus on reducing inflation rates and ensuring the stability of the naira against the US dollar, as we are an import-dependent nation.”
“In this context, the Tinubu administration should take advantage of the opportunities presented by the BRICS group—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—now that Nigeria is a member. We could engage in trade using the Chinese Yuan rather than relying on the undue prominence of the Dollar.”
