Kwara Govt meets stakeholders, State Working Committee on food security

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The Kwara State Government has met with relevant stakeholders and the State Working Committee to enhance agricultural production capacity in the state.

This meeting aimed to discuss strategies for improving food production, strengthening farmers’ capacity, and developing the agricultural sector.

This information was disclosed in a statement by Oladipo Olushola, the Assistant Press Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

During the meeting, Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq highlighted the importance of the State Working Committee on food security in enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

The governor, represented by his Deputy, Kayode Alabi, emphasised the committee’s responsibilities, including policy formulation, capacity building, research, innovation, collaboration, partnership, and monitoring and evaluation of farmers.

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He encouraged the Committee to fully embrace these responsibilities to overcome challenges and promote a prosperous and food-secure state.

Oloruntoyosi Thomas, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, explained the objectives of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme (NAGS) in enhancing the resilience of small-scale farmers and increasing access to inputs for food and nutrition security.

She highlighted the role of the food security working committee in implementing the objectives of NAGS-AP, a project funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Mrs Thomas stated that the committee’s main task is to select genuine farmers for the program and sensitize them on the program’s model.

Kwara State has been allocated 3600 hectares for maize, rice, and cassava production, and the committee is responsible for monitoring adherence to AfDB guidelines.

She emphasised that selecting genuine farmers would ensure proper utilization of resources and accountability upon harvest.

DrbAbdullahi Aliyu, representing the traditional council and also the Etsu of Tsaragi, expressed support for the program, noting that many traditional rulers are farmers and would lead by example.

He assured the state government of the traditional rulers’ commitment to supporting efforts to reduce youth unemployment by ensuring the success of the program.