‘Grants To Farmers, Not Palliatives, Will Reduce Hunger’

Luka Osagie, the chairman of the Edo State chapter of the Association of Yam Farmers, emphasized the necessity for government support in ensuring food security by assisting yam farmers with grants. He highlighted that many farmers, due to hunger, have sold their seed yams for consumption, exacerbating the present high cost of yams. Osagie stressed the need for financial assistance or the provision of essential farming inputs like seedlings, fertilizers, and chemicals to address the challenges faced by yam farmers. He proposed that if each farmer received government support, particularly in seedlings, it would enhance production, leading to food sufficiency and reduced prices. Osagie emphasized the importance of grants over palliatives, asserting that they empower farmers to invest in farming activities, ultimately benefiting the entire nation. He also urged for discussions among stakeholders to devise effective strategies for supporting farmers and addressing the challenges in the agricultural sector. Source: DailyTrust

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Osagie rightly emphasizes the need for targeted assistance, including grants, input subsidies, and infrastructure development, to alleviate the challenges faced by farmers. Government intervention can stimulate productivity, enhance food security, and stabilize market prices. By investing in yam farming initiatives, policymakers can empower farmers, foster innovation, and drive economic growth in rural communities. It’s imperative to establish collaborative platforms involving stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of support programs. Additionally, promoting sustainable financing mechanisms and capacity-building initiatives will enable farmers to maximize their potential and contribute significantly to national food production goals.