Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, says food security is critical to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
In a statement on Wednesday, Suleiman Haruna, the Deputy Director of Press at the Ministry, said Idris disclosed plans to end the importation of agricultural produce by the Tinubu-led administration during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus, Vyacheslav Bril, to his office in Abuja.
According to him, the Tinubu-led government, from its assumption of office, declared an emergency on food because it was the only way to curb the importation of agricultural products.
“One of the key priority areas for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is food security, which he declared an emergency from day one because it is the only way to curb food importation and strengthen our economy,” he said.
He stated that the Republic of Belarus offers agricultural technologies and knowledge that Nigeria may benefit from.
He stated that Nigeria wishes to prevent the importation of agricultural produce by improving its ability to produce enough agricultural produce for its inhabitants.
What is lacking is technology and the essential investment in the value chain, despite the availability of fertile land, human resources, and a vast market.
The Minister informed the Ambassador that Nigeria is willing to collaborate.
“I am happy that you are already partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture so that our two countries can work together to boost production,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, His Excellency Vyacheslav Bril, Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus, stated that the Republic of Belarus is export-oriented and agriculturally strong.
According to him, Belarus is responsible for over 30% of fertilizer production, which is critical for global food security.
“We can support Nigeria with farm inputs, food processing plants, storage facilities, and equipment,” he added.
