Benue groups urge Tinubu to establish farming ministry

Iorbee Ihagh, President General of the Mdzough U Tiv Worldwide and leader of socio-cultural groups in Benue State urged President Bola Tinubu to establish a Ministry of Farming to enhance food security and protect farmers. He criticized the new Ministry of Livestock and Development as a disguised RUGA settlement, fearing it may escalate conflicts. Ihagh emphasized the importance of focusing on food and cash crops, suggesting the Ministry of Agriculture is too broad. He advised creating ranching within the Ministry of Agriculture instead of the Ministry of Livestock.   Source: Punch

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Iorbee Ihagh’s call for a Ministry of Farming in Nigeria aims to boost food security and better support farmers. By narrowing the focus of the current Ministry of Agriculture, this new ministry could prioritize crop production and research, leading to targeted policies and innovative farming techniques. Ihagh’s critique of the Ministry of Livestock Development highlights concerns about balancing crop farming and livestock interests.

A dedicated Ministry of Farming could enhance productivity, supply chain efficiency, and market access across the agri-food value chain. It would enable informed decision-making through data-driven insights, promoting growth and sustainability. This initiative could significantly reduce food scarcity, improve farmer security, and strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural economy.