Peter Obi Visits IITA for Agricultural Development: Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, accompanied by Mrs. Aisha Yusufu, Dele Farotimi, and Dr. Moses Paul, paid a visit to the headquarters of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan yesterday. The visit aimed to explore the organization’s efforts in agricultural research and development to address hunger and poverty in Nigeria.
Peter Obi Engages in Discussions with Delegates and IITA Officials
Peter Obi was informed about the institute’s renowned dedication to sustainable and inventive farming methods during his visit to IITA, prioritizing the resolution of Nigeria’s food security issues. He gained insight into IITA’s partnerships with local farmers and agricultural stakeholders to improve farming techniques. Through close collaboration with these important contributors, IITA guarantees the successful spread and adoption of its research findings and advancements, resulting in tangible enhancements within the agricultural sector.
In his remarks, Mr. Obi emphasized the critical role of agriculture in Nigeria’s economy and highlighted the nation’s neglect of the agricultural sector as a primary cause of hunger and food insecurity. He expressed concern over Nigeria’s ranking in the 2023 Global Hunger Index, where it ranked 109th out of 125 countries, indicating a serious hunger level in the nation. Mr. Obi also noted the high food inflation rate, currently at 33%, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to transition from consumption to production in the agricultural sector.
During his visit to IITA, Peter Obi also commended the management and staff for their significant contributions to the agricultural sector, particularly in ensuring higher agricultural productivity. He stressed the importance of fully exploring Nigeria’s untapped natural resources, including vast uncultivated lands in the North, and putting them into maximum productive agricultural use for the benefit of the nation. Mr. Obi believes that organizations like IITA play a crucial role in achieving food security, eradicating hunger, and driving down inflation in Nigeria.
In conclusion, Mr. Obi reiterated his commitment to working towards a “New Nigeria” where agricultural development is prioritized to achieve food security and economic prosperity for all citizens.
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