Nigeria cannot thrive with hungry, insecure citizens: Defence Minister
Defence minister Mohammed Badaru says the Nigerian government is doing its best to ensure food security, pointing out that no nation can thrive with citizens on empty stomachs.
Mr Badaru stated this while delivering a keynote at the Third National Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday.
Mr Badaru said the armed forces “will not relent in bringing all enemies of Nigeria to justice.” He assured Nigerians of the forces’ commitment to provide security to boost food security in the country.
“The Nigerian government is mindful of the fact that food security is a very fundamental aspect of human rights. No nation can strive if the citizens are hungry or insecure. In Nigeria, we are blessed with vast agricultural resources.
“Yet, still face the challenges in feeding our people. With the commitment and determination that I saw during my tour of the nation, I am confident that we are on course to food security in the country,” the defence minister stressed.
The minister expressed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare and security of Nigerians.
Mr Badaru added that Mr Tinubu had demonstrated his commitment in the efforts made to provide relief amidst economic instability to various programmes touching on sectors such as agriculture, trade, education, health, transportation, and security measures.
The minister urged citizens to support the security agencies by boasting their morale to discharge their duties.
Mr Badaru called on leaders to foster dialogue and develop actionable solutions that promote peace, stability, and economic growth across the country.
He also charged leaders on inclusivity and decisions that reflect the will of the citizens as well as ensuring that their needs were met.
“Accordingly, we all must advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in leadership, where collectively all voices are valued and public resources are utilised prudently and generously.
“Embracing transparent and accountable leadership is essential for fostering development, which is closely linked to security and stability. Therefore, achieving good governance requires a decisive inclusivity of all ideas regardless of background or status as they deserve.
“In addition, we must leverage technology to enhance governance by facilitating greater citizen engagement and combating corruption in Nigeria. Nigeria is a nation of resilient and compassionate people, placed by God, and we must never take this for granted,” he said.
Mr Badaru, however, said to address food insecurity squarely, there was a need for a concentrated approach. According to him, this includes investing in agriculture, research, and innovation and providing farmers with the necessary tools and resources.
(NAN)
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