The Kogi State Government has intensified collaborations with federal agencies and international investors to reposition agriculture as the backbone of its economy, enhance food security, and boost exports. 

This follows an inspection tour of Geregu in Ajaokuta, during which officials, experts, and investors assessed farmlands and engaged stakeholders on mechanised farming and market expansion.

Leading the delegation, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, said the initiative reflects Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to using agriculture for job creation, farmer empowerment, and economic growth.

“Our Governor has always said we must produce what we eat and eat what we produce. With mechanisation, innovation, and the right partnerships, Kogi will not only feed its people but also support neighbouring states and possibly export surplus,” Ojomah stated.

He emphasised that agriculture remains a vital path to job creation, particularly for thousands of graduates produced annually by the state’s tertiary institutions.

The Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture, Mr Mathew Ajayi, noted that the partnership aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda and efforts to cut Nigeria’s heavy reliance on food imports.

“Nigeria spends billions of dollars annually on food imports. Our goal is to reverse this trend by promoting crops like rice, maize, soybeans, and cash crops for export”. 

“This partnership with Kogi and Onida Agri will help us achieve that and generate billions in agricultural exports,” Ajayi explained.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Hon. Victor Omofaiye, stressed the agency’s role in ensuring fair pricing for farmers and improving access to export markets.

Israel Kidron, Managing Director of Onida Agri and Aquaculture Solutions Ltd, highlighted Kogi’s fertile soil and abundant water resources as key factors making it an ideal hub for modern farming.

“We are looking to establish modern, year-round operations supported by technology, better varieties, and mechanisation. Beyond that, we will train farmers and transfer knowledge to ensure higher yields and quality,” Kidron said.

With over 35 years of agricultural experience in Africa and 15 years in Nigeria, Onida Agri pledged long-term commitment to working with Kogi to achieve food sufficiency and position the state as a major contributor to Nigeria’s export market.

Source: Authority

Image Credit: Independence News