In a strategic move aimed at ensuring food accessibility and affordability for Nigerians, the Federal Government has announced plans to recapitalize the Bank of Agriculture (BOA). This initiative, as disclosed by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON, is part of broader reforms intended to strengthen the nation’s food security.
During a recent courtesy visit by the Emir of Borgu, Barr. Mohammed Sani Haliru, to his office in Abuja, Abdullahi emphasized the importance of sustaining agricultural productivity. “We are reforming the Bank of Agriculture to serve Nigerians. We are recapitalizing the Bank of Agriculture to make food accessible and affordable to Nigerians,” the Minister stated, highlighting the government’s resolve to support farmers and agricultural enterprises.
The recapitalization of BOA is expected to provide critical financial backing to farmers, improve mechanized farming, and enhance rural agricultural development. This move comes at a time when rising food prices and economic challenges are straining household incomes, making food security a national priority.
Beyond the BOA reforms, Abdullahi reassured that the government is intensifying efforts to develop cluster farms in Borgu Kingdom. His commitment to supporting agricultural expansion aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic diversification agenda, which prioritizes agriculture as a key driver of national growth.
The Emir of Borgu, in his remarks, reaffirmed his kingdom’s readiness to contribute to Nigeria’s food production capacity. “Borgu has the potential to feed the nation. If well tapped, our vast agricultural land can significantly support national food production,” he said, urging the Minister to prioritize the region’s agricultural potential.
He further expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for appointing a son of Borgu to such a critical position at a time when agriculture must be revitalized. His call for urgent attention to Borgu’s agricultural resources reflects a broader national discourse on harnessing local potentials to address food shortages and economic instability.
Similarly, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, assured the Emir that the ministry’s leadership remains fully committed to supporting the Minister’s success. “When the Ministers succeed, we have succeeded, and when they fail, we have failed. But I am confident that they will not fail,” he affirmed.
With the government’s renewed focus on agricultural reforms, the recapitalization of the BOA signals a crucial step towards strengthening food production, supporting farmers, and ultimately ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in the quest for food security. The success of this initiative will depend on efficient implementation, transparency, and a robust framework to ensure that farmers at all levels can access the much-needed financial support.
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