In a bid to compensate for the devastation caused by floods and other climatic factors during the 2024 wet season, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, has disclosed the federal government’s plans to massively support farmers during the dry season.

The minister, who made this disclosure during the distribution of farm inputs to farming clusters in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of activities to mark the 2024 World Food Day celebration yesterday, urged farmers to watch out for the government’s rollout of its dry season programme.

Speaking on the significance of the World Food Day celebration, he said, “We are here to understand the challenges farmers face. Instead of celebrating World Food Day in our offices, we chose to visit the field to get firsthand information.”

He added that this approach underscores the ministry’s commitment to engaging with farmers and tailoring solutions to their specific needs.

The minister stressed the role of cluster farming in achieving food security, noting, “Our goal at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry.”

He outlined the government’s initiatives to support farmers in overcoming the pervasive issues of climate change, low yield, and productivity.

The minister, however, expressed satisfaction with the progress made despite past security challenges.

“The farmers here have overcome insecurity, and farming activities are thriving,” he said.

Reflecting on the government’s efforts, the minister mentioned the recent presentation of the annual performance report for the wet season by the National Agricultural Extension, Research, and Liaison Services.

He acknowledged the challenges of insecurity but highlighted significant successes across various regions.

He further stressed the Federal Government’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, particularly in promoting food security and ensuring that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry anymore.

“We are encouraged by the diversity of crops being cultivated, including rice, sorghum, and cowpea, which are critical for providing essential plant-based protein,” he added.

On his part, the assistant country representative of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Salisu Mohammed, noted the importance of building climate resilience and improving agricultural productivity as critical steps toward reversing the country’s food insecurity trends.

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He encouraged FCT residents, particularly the youth, to take advantage of the vast arable land in the FCT and venture into agriculture. “No matter how small, you can make a difference,” he said.