Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi has called on the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to intensify its efforts in ensuring the safety of farmers nationwide, emphasizing that this is crucial for enhancing food production in the country.
In a concise statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Mr. Obi urged the government to offer sufficient assistance to farmers, emphasizing that without an uptick in food production, hunger reduction in Nigeria will remain elusive.
He expressed concern, citing a UNICEF report in January 2023, which highlighted that nearly 25 million Nigerians faced the threat of hunger between June and August 2023 unless immediate measures were implemented.
He asserted that “with the high level of insecurity and terror attacks in many parts of the country hindering farmers from their agricultural activities, and management of our monetary policies impacting negatively on small businesses in the agricultural sector, the government must secure the farmers and give them adequate support for increased food production”.
The remarks from the LP candidate come shortly after President Tinubu initiated the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Programme in Niger State. In his address, the President reiterated his administration’s dedication to achieving food self-sufficiency and safeguarding local industries to foster sustainable economic development.
During the inauguration, President Tinubu emphasized the need for the government to tackle the nation’s challenges and transform Nigeria into an economy brimming with opportunities.