First Lady Calls for Youth Involvement in Agriculture to Enhance Food Security in Nigeria
First Lady Remi Tinubu in Abuja – ARDnig
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, emphasizes the role of youth and women in strengthening food security by participating in agriculture. Through the Renewed Hope Initiative, she promotes home gardening and supports farming projects across Nigeria. With financial backing and educational programs from the government, Nigeria aims for a sustainable food future where every family has access to nutritious food.
Importance of Youth Engagement in Agriculture
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has encouraged young Nigerians to actively participate in agriculture to strengthen the country’s food security. Engaging the youth in farming can help ensure a stable food supply for Nigeria, and the First Lady believes their energy and innovation can drive positive change. She highlighted the importance of using local resources, stating that if more young people join farming, it will contribute significantly to the nation’s well-being.
Promoting Home Gardening for Women and Families
The First Lady also urged women to engage in small-scale farming by growing crops in their backyards. Home gardening provides families with fresh, healthy food, and ensures a continuous food supply. By cultivating their own gardens, women can contribute to their household’s nutrition and reduce food expenses. The First Lady shared her experience with home gardening, emphasizing how it can empower families to access organic food and improve their health.
“Engaging our youth in agriculture is vital for Nigeria’s future. Together, we can create a nation where every home has access to fresh, nutritious food.”
Renewed Hope Initiative’s Agricultural Competitions and Support
Through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), the First Lady launched the #EveryHomeAGarden competition to inspire Nigerians to start their own home gardens. This competition, nearing its conclusion, has motivated many families to embrace gardening as a means of food security. Additionally, the RHI has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to support local farming initiatives, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing food insecurity across Nigeria.
During the First Lady’s meeting with the wives of state governors, held in Abuja on Thursday, November 7, 2024 – ARDnig
Financial and Educational Support for Farmers
To further empower women and young farmers, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture announced a funding plan under the Women Agricultural Support Programme (WASP). Each state will receive N68 million to implement projects that train and support female farmers, process food, and promote sustainable agriculture. This funding aims to increase food production, reduce poverty, and create sustainable income sources, especially for women who play a central role in family and community welfare.
Sustainable Plans for Food Security in Nigeria
The First Lady’s initiatives, supported by state governors and private companies, emphasize long-term solutions for food security. The goal is to ensure that every Nigerian family can access and afford nutritious food. With programs like home gardening and funding for young farmers, Nigeria is taking steps towards self-sufficiency in food production. The First Lady hopes that these projects will inspire more Nigerians to act, contributing to a sustainable food future.
Conclusion
The First Lady’s call for youth and women to engage in agriculture reflects a vision for a food-secure Nigeria. By supporting home gardening and funding local agricultural projects, the government and the Renewed Hope Initiative aim to empower Nigerians with the tools and knowledge they need to improve food access. This collaborative effort offers a sustainable path toward a healthier, self-sufficient Nigeria.
