The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to invest substantially in agriculture, highlighting the sector’s essential role in driving economic development and reducing poverty. This appeal was made by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, during the 31st Annual Development Forum of LAPO Group, themed “Paradox of Poverty in a ‘Wealthy Nation’: Policy Issues and Perspectives,” held in Abuja.
Represented by his Special Assistant on Cooperative and Farmers Welfare, Victor Oyegoke, Abdullahi emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s extreme poverty requires a blend of policy reforms, economic restructuring, and effective social protection measures to foster socio-economic empowerment.
“Agriculture is a fundamental pillar of our economy, vital for alleviating poverty, fostering growth, and ensuring food security,” Abdullahi stated. “Despite the vast potential within the sector, Nigeria faces significant challenges where the cooperative sector plays a critical role in driving growth.”
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Abdullahi pointed out that, while Nigeria possesses fertile land, rich natural resources, and a young population, poverty and food insecurity persist. He urged for a comprehensive approach aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at revitalizing the economy, promoting inclusive growth, and improving the quality of life for Nigerians. The agenda places a strong emphasis on agricultural innovation and infrastructure investment to enhance productivity and sustainability in the sector.
LAPO’s Head of Programme and Communications, Dr. James-Wisdom Abhulimen, shared that the organization has disbursed over N1.4 trillion in microcredit to support small and medium-sized enterprises over the past 37 years, aiming to reduce poverty nationwide. Beneficiaries include petty traders, farmers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, all of whom contribute to economic growth and national prosperity.
John Odigie-Oyegun, former governor of Edo State and chairman of the event, questioned how a nation as resource-rich as Nigeria continues to grapple with extreme poverty, underscoring the need for urgent and impactful solutions.
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