Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has been honored with The Sun Newspaper’s Governor of the Year in Agriculture Award in recognition of his administration’s commitment to revitalising agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and food security.
The Governor received the award on Saturday at the Expo Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos, alongside other awardees in different categories.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Bago dedicated the award to all farmers in Nigeria, stressing that it serves as further motivation to intensify efforts in feeding the nation as a whole.
A statement issued to newsmen in Minna by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, stated that Bago expressed gratitude to the award organisers and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to transforming Niger State into the food basket of the nation through strategic investments in mechanised farming, irrigation, and support for rural farmers.
The statement noted that the governor urged Nigerians to embrace agriculture, stating that the sector holds the future of the nation’s economy and remains the most sustainable way to achieve food sufficiency, job creation, and economic prosperity. He encouraged citizens to utilise available spaces, including backyards and even sacks, for livestock and crop production.
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“No matter how little your space is, you can grow something. You don’t need vast farmlands to contribute to the nation’s food supply. A simple vegetable garden, a few crops in sacks, or even greenhouses can make a difference,” Bago said.
Bago reiterated his belief that agriculture is the new crude oil, stressing that reliance on oil revenue is unsustainable.
He added that Nigeria’s vast arable land should be harnessed for large-scale food production, agro-processing, and export, which will reduce dependence on food imports and strengthen the nation’s economy.
He called on governments, investors, policymakers, and citizens to join hands in making agriculture a priority, ensuring that Nigeria not only feeds itself but also becomes a global player in food production and export.
“With the right policies, investments, and the collective efforts of all Nigerians, we can turn our agricultural sector into a powerhouse that drives economic transformation and positions Nigeria as a leader in global food production,” he said.
Bago has consistently championed agriculture as the foundation for sustainable development, rural empowerment, and national prosperity, making Niger State a model for agricultural innovation and productivity.
