Nigerians have no justification experiencing hungry — Vice President

As Nigeria grapples with a severe food crisis, Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized that Nigerians have no justification for experiencing hunger, given the nation’s immense agricultural potential.

Speaking at the inauguration of Springfield Agro Limited’s Crop Protection Chemical Plant in Ogun State, the Vice President, represented by the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, highlighted the nation’s favorable climate, arable land, and other resources capable of sustaining both domestic consumption and food export.

Shettima lamented that many farmers rely solely on the rainy season, leaving their farms inactive during the dry season.

He stated, “We have vast potential but have primarily focused on rainy season farming. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) is changing this narrative by promoting year-round farming, including both wet and dry seasons.”

The Vice President urged farmers to collaborate with their state ministries of agriculture as the government establishes a comprehensive database for agricultural development.

“Our immediate target is rice production. We will ensure farmers are identified, registered, and supported with fertilizers—both organic and inorganic—as needed,” he added.

Shettima reiterated the government’s commitment to removing barriers and supporting businesses like Springfield Agro.

“Agriculture remains a cardinal priority for President Bola Tinubu. Our programs are designed to boost farmers’ productivity and yields through research, mechanization, and advanced technology,” he noted.

Chairman of Kewalram Chanrai Group, N.G. Chanrai, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

He said, “Springfield Agro Limited provides total farm solutions and generates employment for over 500 people across Nigeria. Our new agrochemical plant in Ogun State represents a $12 million investment and has the capacity to produce 30 million liters of agrochemicals, expandable to 50 million liters.”

Chanrai further disclosed plans to export agricultural products to other African countries and emphasized the plant’s eco-friendly operations with a built-in effluent treatment facility.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, commended Springfield Agro’s bold strides.

He pledged the state’s continued support for businesses and urged both local and international investors to consider Ogun State for their ventures, citing its proximity to Lagos and favorable business environment.

The event underscored the synergy between the government and private sector in addressing food security and boosting Nigeria’s agricultural capacity.