Continuity of agric projects crucial for food security, NALDA insists

Prince Paul Ikonne, the Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), has emphasized the importance of sustaining the agency’s agricultural initiatives to achieve food security in Nigeria. Reflecting on NALDA’s achievements over the past four years, Ikonne stressed that maintaining and building upon these initiatives is crucial for long-term success.

Ikonne highlighted that continuity is essential for achieving substantial food production. He pointed out that agriculture requires patience and infrastructure, as it is not a sector where immediate results can be expected. “Continuity is key. Agriculture is a business that requires patience and infrastructure. It’s not something you invest in today and expect to harvest immediately,” he stated. “With sustained efforts, I am confident we will reach our food security goals.”

In discussing NALDA’s establishment of agricultural empowerment centers in Osun, Nasarawa, Katsina, and Cross River states, Ikonne explained that these centers are designed to train youth in various agricultural practices. He elaborated, “The Empowerment Centers were developed in collaboration with landowners and farm owners. NALDA enhanced existing farms and developed new infrastructure on empty land to create comprehensive training facilities.”

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Ikonne also mentioned a recently completed center dedicated to snail production, which is now fully built but not yet stocked. Additionally, the centers will support animal husbandry and goat farming. He noted the establishment of goat farms in Kebbi and Yobe states, which have already empowered local beneficiaries.

Furthermore, Ikonne revealed that NALDA has launched the Institute of Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship in four regions across Nigeria: the South-east, South-west, South-South, and North-west. This institute aims to provide specialized training and support to aspiring agribusiness entrepreneurs, contributing to the overall goal of food security and agricultural development in the country.