The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasized that to expand and sustain food sufficiency in Nigeria, initiatives in the agricultural sector must be designed to encourage children and youth to become young farmers.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu made this statement when she received the management team of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADFUND) in her office to explore areas of collaboration.
She noted that the unavailability of farming land due to urbanization should not be a hindrance, as people can engage in smart gardening.
“We have a lot to show our youth and I believe the time is now. There is a huge disconnect between reality and fiction. There is a need to catch them young and have them do right. Once the children get it, it would be easy to bring it home,” she said.
She explained that the proposed Young Farmers Club by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), which will be launched very soon in public primary and secondary schools, will further sustain the current food sufficiency drive by the Federal Government.
“My being here is to support my husband and ensure we are able to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people and see what we can do, especially for women and youth,” she added.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADFUND), Mohammed Ibrahim, commended the various agriculture-centered programs of the Renewed Hope Initiative by the First Lady, particularly the Women in Agric Support Program (WASP), the Young Farmers Club, and the #EveryHomeAGarden competition.
“The competition and your own garden show exemplary leadership from you. This further emphasizes that ensuring food security is everyone’s responsibility,” Ibrahim stated.
The Executive Secretary disclosed that the Agency is willing to collaborate with the RHI, especially in the areas of mentorship, training, and logistics for women farmers across the States of the Federation.
Mohammed Ibrahim also presented the document outlining the aims and mission of NADFUND to the First Lady.
