By Kolawole Ojebisi
Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has urged the federal government to increase its investment in agriculture as a means of boosting food security in Nigeria and mitigating hunger crisis.
Obi noted that despite vast arable land in the country, Nigerians, particularly young people, find agriculture demeaning hence their migration from rural to urban areas in search of non-existing white collar jobs
According to a statement on Thursday via X, Obi made the appeal during a visit to Mary Agro Farms, Omughu, Obeleagu-Umana in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The visit followed his participation in the Peaceland University conference in Enugu on Wednesday.
Obi said, “Between the time I visited their pilot scheme in Udi over two years ago and supported them, and yesterday, when I visited their permanent site, I was delighted to witness a remarkable transformation that underscores their commitment to excellence and growth.”
Obi, in his statement, lauded the expansion of the farm’s operations and the adoption of innovative agricultural practices, describing them as essential drivers of food security.
He further reinforced his support for productive ventures by donating ₦20 million to Mary Agro Farms.
“In line with my tradition of supporting productive ventures, I donated ₦20 million to the farm. I hope they will continue to remain innovative and productive, especially during this critical period of severe hunger, food scarcity, and inflation in our nation,” Obi said.
Citing alarming statistics, Obi highlighted a recent United Nations report warning that 33 million Nigerians could face severe hunger by 2025. Additionally, Save the Children International projected that 5.4 million Nigerian children are at risk of acute malnutrition within the same period.
“For a nation already battling severe hunger, these alarming statistics call for immediate action. I continue to urge governments at all levels to take measurable steps toward investing in food production to mitigate the ongoing food crisis,” Obi said.
Obi further commended the management and staff of Mary Agro Farms for their resilience and dedication to agriculture and their productivity.
