As Nigeria faces a severe food crisis, Kashim Shettima has stressed that hunger is unjustifiable in a country with vast agricultural potential.
Speaking at the inauguration of Springfield Agro Limited’s Crop Protection Chemical Plant in Ogun State, Shettima, represented by the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, highlighted Nigeria’s favorable climate, fertile land, and abundant resources, which can support both domestic food security and exports.
Shettima lamented that many farmers rely solely on the rainy season, leaving their farms inactive during the dry season.
He stated, “We have vast potential but have primarily focused on rainy season farming. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) is changing this narrative by promoting year-round farming, including both wet and dry seasons.”
The Vice President urged farmers to collaborate with their state ministries of agriculture as the government establishes a comprehensive database for agricultural development.
“Our immediate target is rice production. We will ensure farmers are identified, registered, and supported with fertilizers—both organic and inorganic—as needed,” he added.
Shettima reiterated the government’s commitment to removing barriers and supporting businesses like Springfield Agro.
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“Agriculture remains a cardinal priority for President Bola Tinubu. Our programs are designed to boost farmers’ productivity and yields through research, mechanization, and advanced technology,” he noted.
Chairman of Kewalram Chanrai Group, N.G. Chanrai, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He said, “Springfield Agro Limited provides total farm solutions and generates employment for over 500 people across Nigeria. Our new agrochemical plant in Ogun State represents a $12 million investment and has the capacity to produce 30 million liters of agrochemicals, expandable to 50 million liters.”
Chanrai also revealed plans to export agricultural products to other African nations, highlighting the plant’s environmentally friendly operations, which include an integrated effluent treatment facility.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele praised Springfield Agro for its ambitious initiatives.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting businesses and encouraged both local and international investors to explore opportunities in Ogun State, emphasizing its strategic location near Lagos and its business-friendly environment.
The event showcased the strong collaboration between the government and the private sector in tackling food security and enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural capacity.
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