By Uzair Adam
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has announced that the federal government is taking decisive actions to mitigate the impact of climate change and food insecurity, which have been major concerns in the country for some time.
He stated that the government is committed to investing in agricultural research and development, promoting climate-resilient agriculture, and empowering smallholder farmers through subsidies, training, and improved market access.
Senator Kyari disclosed this on Monday during the Crop Science Society of Nigeria (CSSN) National Conference at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
He reiterated that these efforts would help address the lingering issues affecting the agricultural sector.
Represented by Engineer Abubakar Garba, Senator Kyari added that the government has established an effective early warning system to predict and prepare for climate-related disasters, among other initiatives.
He was quoted as saying, “Climate change is real, and we must work with it to develop resilience in agricultural production.
“The theme of this event is timely, given the pressing challenges facing agricultural development globally,” Senator Kyari added.
He further lamented that “climate change has wreaked havoc on crop production worldwide, exacerbating food insecurity, especially in Africa and other developing regions. The compounding challenges of climate change and the global economic downturn have triggered soaring prices, severely impacting agricultural development and the most vulnerable citizens in society.”
Also speaking at the event, the CSSN President, Professor M.I. Uguru, called on the federal government to ramp up investments in crop and livestock production to address Nigeria’s escalating food insecurity.
He stated, “Food prices are skyrocketing, and many communities are grappling with severe shortages,” Professor Uguru said, stressing the urgent need for a domestic agricultural response.
Bayero University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, praised CSSN for organizing the conference, describing it as an essential platform for sharing research and advancements in crop science.
The conference was attended by agricultural experts, academics, and government officials, including Hajiya Salamatu Garba, Executive Director of the Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN).
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