Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago, has urged young people in the state to take up farming rather than waiting for white-collar jobs, describing agriculture as a more profitable and sustainable source of livelihood.

The governor made the call during the closing ceremony of the two-day Niger State Council on Agriculture held in Minna. 

Represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Alhaji Yussuf Sadiq, Bago stated that farming not only offers self-employment opportunities but also empowers young people to contribute directly to local and national food security.

He explained that increased youth participation in agriculture would enable communities to produce enough for their own consumption and generate a surplus for export, thereby boosting revenue for both the state and the country.

Governor Bago assured residents of the administration’s continued commitment to investing in agriculture as a strategic sector to strengthen the state’s economy and reduce its reliance on federal allocations.

He also commended the agricultural policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that they have begun to deliver positive results for both the national economy and the livelihoods of Nigerians.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary in the state Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Mathew Ahmed, said the council was organised to bridge the gap between agricultural policy design and implementation. 

He acknowledged the vital support of donor agencies, which he said has helped place Niger State among the country’s leading agricultural producers.

The forum featured an exhibition of a wide range of agricultural produce, modern equipment and essential farm inputs.

Source: ThisDay
Image Credit: The Guardian