Minister sympathises with farmers affected by flooding

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Senator Abubakar Kyari has sympathised with farmers affected by the recent flooding that destroyed farmlands across the country.

The Minister in a post on his X handle said the development was worrisome and will have a negative impact on the social and economic well-being of the rural farmers, especially the small-scale farmers.

He said “As we witness the devastation caused by the recent flooding in our agricultural heartlands, my thoughts turn to the hardworking farmers whose livelihoods have been swept away by the unforgiving forces of nature.”

He said although the impact of the flood will be felt on the anticipated harvest this year, they are hopeful it will have minimal effect on national food security as the government intends to embark on 2024/2025 dry season farming to cover the losses recorded as a result of the flood.

He said the President has encouraged them to invest in technologies and practices that empower farmers to adapt to a changing climate to safeguard their livelihoods against unpredictable weather patterns.

He noted that by embracing smart agriculture and harnessing the potential of early maturing seeds, the country can pave the way for a more sustainable and secure future for the agricultural sector.

He said his ministry and that of water resources and sanitation are collaborating towards improving areas under cultivation during dry season farming.

“We have constituted a committee already between the staff of the two ministries and key players working on ways to achieve the objectives of increasing food production through dry season farming.”

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He urged all citizens to join hands in solidarity with the farmers, states, and local governments to offer more support and resources to those who toil tirelessly to feed the nation.

“Together, we will weather this storm, and together, we will emerge stronger, united in our commitment to stand with our farmers today and always.”