FG Priorities Research
FG Priorities Research strategy to boost Food
Security
The Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji
Mohammed Sabo Nanono has stated that Agricultural Research is very
critical towards growth in the Sector and will ensure Food Security
in Nigeria.
Alhaji Sabo Nanono made this statement in his office in Abuja,
when a delegation from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation led by the
Deputy Director, Agricultural Development, Tom Kehoe and his
entourage paid him a courtesy visit to explore areas of mutual
cooperation as regards to economic opportunities for smallholder
farmers, assisting Government efforts towards creating a business
climate that would attracts Private Sector Investment and Produce
Innovations that enable Farmers adapt to climate change.
The Minister pointed out that the outcome of the researches
would improve the issue of seedling that will be suitable to our
environment and boost the growth of food products in Nigeria.
He further said that it would improve value chain geared towards
increasing Internally Generated Revenue and Alleviate Poverty,
which is one of the key components of the Next Level Agenda of Mr.
President’s Administration.
Nanono stressed that it would encourage standardization of
Agricultural Products in Nigeria and also develop Capacity Building
that would sustain the lager population.
Acquainting the Minister with the purpose of his visit earlier,
Deputy Director, Agricultural Development, Tom Kehoe said that ‘’
our investment are backing efforts to develop disease – resistant
varieties that are more nutritious and can be easily processed to
meet demands for cassava’s many commercial uses ,which range from
making bread and beer to bio gradable packing’’
He noted that ‘’ we are increasingly viewing our agriculture
investment through the lens of climate change and its impact on
smallholder farmers. A key goal is to support innovations that can
help farmers adapt, he added.
In his vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of
Agriculture and Development Rural, Dr. Mohammed Bello Umar thanked
the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for being supportive of the
Programme of the Ministry. He also said that the Organization’s
activities are in line with the vision and mission of the
Agricultural Sector of Nigeria.
Ezeaja Ikemefuna
For: Director, Information (FMARD) is