By Leo Zwànke, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Muhammad Iyimoga Oyigye, has unveiled an ambitious agricultural roadmap aimed at ensuring food security and bolstering the state’s economy.
As the overseer of the Ministry of Agriculture, Iyimoga highlighted the state government’s determination to maximize the potential of its 10,000-hectare rice farm in Jangwa, Awe Local Government Area. This initiative forms a cornerstone of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s broader agricultural vision.
A Commitment to Food Security
In an exclusive interview, the commissioner emphasized the administration’s resolve to end hunger in Nasarawa State:
“My priority is to ensure food security by supporting Governor Sule’s agricultural vision. We are committed to leveraging the Jangwa rice farm to meet the food demands of our people and contribute to the state’s economic growth.”
Key strategies include:
– Provision of essential resources like fertilizers, seeds, and technical training for farmers.
– Enhancing storage and distribution systems to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food accessibility.
– Promoting mechanized farming and agro-processing to boost productivity and create jobs.
Iyimoga stressed the importance of a peaceful environment for agricultural activities, noting the state’s progress in reducing farmer-herder clashes.
Addressing Farmers’ Concerns
Responding to complaints from Tiv farmers regarding land disputes and unauthorized harvesting, Iyimoga reassured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to fairness.
“We are dedicated to resolving genuine concerns in a transparent manner. Having lived among the Tiv community for many years, I empathize with their challenges and aim to foster mutual understanding.”
He dismissed unfounded claims as attempts to create confusion, asserting the government’s focus on equitable agricultural benefits for all communities.
Governor Sule’s Transformational Leadership
The commissioner lauded Governor Sule’s achievements in revolutionizing agriculture, including:
– Supporting farmers with modern tools and resources.
– Reducing farmer-herder conflicts, fostering a secure environment for farming.
“Governor Sule’s policies have been transformative, enabling farmers to thrive and communities to flourish. Our goal is to position Nasarawa as a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria,” Iyimoga stated.
A Vision for the Future
Iyimoga outlined long-term goals that align with the state’s agricultural ambitions:
– Expanding mechanized and irrigation farming.
– Transitioning smallholder farmers to commercial farming.
– Investing in agro-processing for value addition and income growth.
The commissioner called on farmers and residents to collaborate with the government to achieve these objectives.
“Agriculture thrives in peace and cooperation. Let us work together to realize Governor Sule’s vision of a food-secure Nasarawa State.”
Conclusion
Under Governor Sule’s leadership, Nasarawa State is emerging as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. With focused policies, transparent governance, and collaborative efforts, the state is well-positioned to lead an agricultural revolution that ensures prosperity and food security for its people.
