The Traffic

Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications to President Bola Tinubu, made a compelling appearance on TVC's Breakfast Show to address recent claims about Nigeria's food importation and the administration's efforts to boost food security.

In response to statements made by the Minister of Agriculture, Dare emphasized the significant strides made under the current administration, highlighting the recent drop in food prices as a testament to the government's deliberate and strategic policies.

Improved security across the country, Dare noted, has enabled farmers to spend more time on their farms without fear of attacks or disruptions. "The safety of our farmers is paramount," he stated. "With improved security, we've seen a remarkable increase in agricultural productivity."

Dare also pointed to the removal of middlemen in the agricultural value chain as a critical intervention, enabling farmers to earn more for their produce while consumers benefit from lower prices. This, he said, has been a game-changer in ensuring food affordability and availability for Nigerians.

The administration's efforts to engage farmers in large-scale agricultural projects have also yielded impressive results, with over 300,000 farmers involved in dry-season rice farming and another 400,000 in wheat farming. These initiatives are part of the government's broader strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in staple food production and reduce reliance on imports.

Furthermore, Dare highlighted the establishment of a cashew processing plant in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, as a significant milestone in building the agricultural value chain. This project, championed by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Akala, has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives and is expected to boost Nigeria's agricultural output and create jobs for millions of Nigerians.

Dare's appearance on the show was met with widespread praise from viewers, who commended the administration's efforts to address food security and improve the livelihoods of farmers. As Nigeria continues to make strides in agriculture, the government remains focused on ensuring a robust and resilient food supply chain, sending a clear message that Nigeria is on the path to becoming a self-sufficient, food-secure nation.

Gbolahun Bakare