The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to achieving food security in Nigeria through the promotion of all-year-
round farming and the expansion of irrigation infrastructure across the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, aims to reduce dependence on rain-fed agriculture, boost productivity, and ensure
consistent food supply to meet the nation’s growing population needs. Speaking in Abuja, the Minister of Agriculture and Food
Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the government is taking decisive steps to support farmers with improved seeds,
modern equipment, fertilizers, and irrigation systems that will enable farming activities throughout the year. “Our focus is to move from seasonal to year-round
farming through irrigation and mechanization. This is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to guarantee food security and
reduce hunger,” Kyari stated.The minister explained that the government is already collaborating with state governments, the private sector, and international
development partners to develop large-scale irrigation projects in key agricultural zones, particularly in the northern parts of
the country. He also revealed that plans are underway to rehabilitate and expand existing irrigation schemes managed by the River Basin Development Authorities
(RBDAs) to ensure farmers have access to water during dry seasons. “We are reviving abandoned irrigation facilities and supporting smallholder farmers with solar-
powered pumps, training, and improved technology to sustain production all year long,” he added. Kyari noted that the ministry has launched programs to
encourage the cultivation of staple crops such as rice, maize, wheat, cassava, and vegetables in both wet and dry seasons, while also promoting the use of climate-
smart agriculture techniques to mitigate the effects of climate change. He emphasized that achieving food sufficiency requires a collective effort,
urging Nigerians to support the government’s drive by embracing local food production and reducing reliance on imports. “Food security is national
security. Every Nigerian must play a role from the farmer to the consumer to ensure we achieve self-sufficiency in food
production,” he said. The minister further disclosed that the government is working closely with financial institutions to create
special funding windows for farmers to access affordable credit and insurance schemes that safeguard them from risks such as flooding, drought, and pest
infestations.Agricultural experts have commended the government’s focus on all-year farming, describing it as a sustainable approach that could drastically
reduce food inflation, create employment opportunities, and enhance Nigeria’s agricultural exports.The initiative, once
fully implemented, is expected to transform the agricultural sector, strengthen rural economies, and position Nigeria as a major food producer in Africa.
Kindly Share this News!!!