Home News Federal Government Urges Investment in Agriculture to Tackle Poverty

Federal Government Urges Investment in Agriculture to Tackle Poverty

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The Federal Government has encouraged Nigerians to invest significantly in agriculture, emphasising the sector’s critical role in economic development and poverty reduction.

The call was made by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, during the 31st Annual Development Forum of LAPO Group in Abuja. Themed ‘Paradox of Poverty in a Wealthy Nation: Policy Issues and Perspectives,’ the forum aimed to address economic and social challenges.

Abdullahi, represented by his Special Assistant on Cooperative and Farmers Welfare, Victor Oyegoke, stressed that alleviating the country’s extreme poverty requires a combination of policy and economic reforms, effective social protection measures, and socio-economic empowerment frameworks.

“Agriculture is a fundamental pillar of our economy, vital for alleviating poverty, fostering growth, and ensuring food security.

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Despite the sector’s vast potential, we still face significant challenges, where the cooperative sector plays a critical role in delivering growth,” Abdullahi said.

He highlighted that Nigeria possesses fertile land, abundant natural resources, and a youthful population, yet many still struggle with poverty and food insecurity.

He also pointed to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which aims to revitalise the economy, promote inclusive growth, and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians.

The agenda prioritises agricultural innovation and infrastructure investment to enhance productivity and sustainability in the sector.

Dr. James-Wisdom Abhulimen, LAPO’s Head of Programme and Communications, revealed that LAPO Group has disbursed over N1.4 trillion in microcredit to small and medium-scale businesses over the past 37 years, supporting petty traders, farmers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners.

He noted that these beneficiaries are contributing significantly to economic stimulation and national prosperity.

The event’s chairman and former Edo State Governor, John Odigie-Oyegun, expressed concern over Nigeria’s persistent poverty despite its abundant resources.

He emphasised the need for a strategic approach to harness the country’s wealth for the benefit of its citizens.

The forum provided an opportunity for stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to uplift the nation’s economy and address poverty through enhanced agricultural policies and cooperative efforts.

 

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