The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has clarified that its recently announced three-day fasting and prayer programme is not a substitute for tangible policies on food security, following widespread criticism from the public.
An internal memo dated 11 June, issued by Adedayo Modupe, Director of Human Resource Management, invited ministry staff to a spiritual exercise aimed at seeking divine guidance in support of Nigeria’s food security efforts.
“All staff of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security are invited to a solemn prayer session for God’s guidance and success in supporting the government’s efforts to achieve food security,” the circular stated.
With the theme ‘Divine Intervention for Protection and National Development’, the sessions are scheduled to hold from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Conference Hall ‘B’ of the ministry’s headquarters in Area 11, Garki, Abuja.
However, Nigerians reacted with outrage, arguing that the government should prioritise concrete policy measures over prayer as millions grapple with skyrocketing food prices and hunger.
Responding to the backlash, the ministry clarified on Saturday that the fasting and prayer sessions are not part of the government’s official agricultural or food security policy. According to a statement reported by NTA, the initiative came from the Human Resources Department as part of efforts to support staff well-being.
The ministry likened the prayer sessions to its wellness initiatives such as routine medical check-ups, aerobic exercises, and use of the in-house gymnasium.
It added that minister and senior management are actively implementing strategic programmes to achieve food and nutrition security, aligning with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
