Mr. Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, has urged the Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu to increase efforts in protecting farmers nationwide.
He emphasized that boosting food production is crucial for the country.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Mr. Obi also called for the government to offer more support to farmers. He pointed out that, without an increase in food production, hunger in Nigeria cannot be reduced.
Obi expressed concern after a UNICEF report in January 2023 revealed that nearly 25 million Nigerians were at risk of hunger between June and August 2023 if immediate action was not taken.
He asserted that “with the high level of insecurity and terror attacks in many parts of the country hindering farmers from their agricultural activities, and management of our monetary policies impacting negatively on small businesses in the agricultural sector, the government must secure the farmers and give them adequate support for increased food production”.
The LP presidential candidate made these remarks shortly after President Tinubu launched the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Program in Niger State. The President emphasized his administration’s dedication to achieving food security and supporting local industries for long-term economic growth.
During the event, the President stated that it is crucial for the government to tackle the issues facing the country and transform Nigeria into a land of opportunities.
