The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has encouraged Nigerians to prioritise agricultural development, stating that this will reshape the country’s economic future, News About Nigeria reports.
He disclosed this while speaking at the inauguration of the Edo Agricultural Hub on Tuesday in Benin.
He described the project as part of efforts to drive economic growth, ensure food security, and foster sustainable development in the state.
Obaseki also stated that over the past eight years, his administration focused on building a foundation for a progressive and prosperous state, aiming to position Edo among Africa’s leading sub-nationals.
He noted that his administration had recorded success in de-risking agriculture, supporting farmers, and prioritising investment in the sector to boost agriculture.
Obaseki stressed that agriculture is the backbone of Edo and Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to the GDP, and was essential for turning around the country’s fortunes.
According to him, agriculture is crucial, especially in ensuring food security at a time when many Nigerians struggle to eat even one meal daily due to rising food costs.
He therefore maintained that in order to achieve self-sufficiency, Nigeria must prioritise local food production rather than relying on imported food, which weakened national food security.
He stated, “I appreciate former Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; our achievements are partly due to continuing his successful policies.
“We have laid a solid foundation through projects like the Edo State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Iguoriakhi.
“It is troubling that Nigeria spends more than 500 million dollars a year on imported dairy products, and we have the capacity to develop our own dairy industry with proper leadership.”
