Former President Muhammadu Buhari says he is delighted that more Nigerians have resorted to the farm to grow more food in order to lower prices and feed the nation, but warns that an uncontrolled population increase is a concern.
Speaking to journalists shortly after joining Daura’s Emir, Dr. Faruk Umar Faruk, to observe the Eid prayer at the township Eid grounds on Sunday, the Buhari remarked, “I am wishing everyone a happy Sallah. May this special festival bring joy, prosperity, and wonderful health to everyone.
“I use this occasion to make an appeal to all citizens to make Nigeria self-reliant. Let us grow our own food. We have shown that we can do it. This is not the time to relent when we see prices going up. Let us buy what is produced in the country.
“The foundation of a prosperous and stable country has been laid by successive governments, and I encourage our youth, in particular, to continue to play an active role in various nation-building efforts.
“I urge the youth of the country to seek to know about the founding fathers of the nation, the important personalities of their regions, and derive inspiration from them.”
Reflecting on the enormous crowds for Eid in Daura, the former President expressed alarm about unbridled population growth, claiming that it will cause a slew of issues for future generations.
“There is a need for greater discussion and awareness about this problem, as well as a need to invest more in education and health.”
In conclusion, he said, “Considering the situation in the country and in the spirit of the Sallah, let us help one another and be our bothers’s keepers. I wish everyone a happy Sallah.”
The former Nigerian leader, who spoke to members of the National Youth Service, NYSC, who have maintained a tradition of paying homage to him every Sallah, said “the scheme continues to be a strong fabric holding the country together” and urged successive administrations “to continue to strengthen it.”
Buhari rated the NYSC as one of General Yakubu Gowon’s finest achievements as head of state.
To commemorate the celebration, Buhari, as he does every year, presented NYSC members with a cow, ten bags of rice, and some cash.
