Unleashing Nigeria’s Agricultural Potential: A Call for Media and Private Sector Collaboration
Nigeria’s youthful population, favorable climate, fertile soil, and diverse crop varieties hold immense potential to transform the nation’s economy. However, this potential remains largely untapped due to the country’s over-reliance on oil production and the neglect of its rich agricultural heritage. This was the focus of a critical discussion led by the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, during a symposium organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ogun State Council.
The event, held as part of the NUJ’s Press Week and themed “Unlocking the Potential of Agriculture for Economic Development: The Roles of the Media,” provided a platform for Prof. Kehinde to emphasize the indispensable role of agriculture and the media in driving Nigeria’s sustainable growth.
Prof. Kehinde, a Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics, underscored the need for active participation and dedication to farming. Quoting the adage, “The best fertilizer on a farmland is the footprint of the farmer,” he reaffirmed FUNAAB’s commitment to making agriculture the bedrock of Nigeria’s economic development. He lamented the neglect of agriculture in favor of oil production, attributing the current food crisis to this misplaced priority.
The Media’s Role in Revitalizing Agriculture
The Vice-Chancellor called on the media to take on a pivotal role in setting national priorities, holding institutions accountable, and advocating for policies that promote agricultural growth. According to him, robust media engagement is essential to bridge the gap between agricultural policies and their implementation at the grassroots level.
“The media must champion the cause through agenda-setting and strategic advocacy,” Prof. Kehinde asserted, highlighting the need for journalists to steer conversations toward sustainable agricultural practices and policies.
The Role of the Private Sector
Prof. Kehinde also stressed the importance of private sector involvement in driving agricultural transformation. He noted that challenges such as inadequate funding could be mitigated by active participation from private organizations. FUNAAB has already partnered with companies like NOLAP, Harvestfield, and AUXANO Farms, leasing lands and providing professional and technical support to enhance productivity.
Recognizing FUNAAB’s Contributions
The NUJ Council Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, lauded FUNAAB for its unwavering contributions to agricultural development. He commended the university’s Directorate of Public Relations for its exceptional efforts in showcasing FUNAAB’s achievements through a dynamic media drive. These efforts, he noted, have been instrumental in promoting the university’s role as a leader in agricultural innovation.
Conclusion
Prof. Kehinde’s call to action serves as a reminder that unlocking Nigeria’s agricultural potential requires a collective effort from the government, media, private sector, and academic institutions. With strategic advocacy, robust partnerships, and grassroots implementation, agriculture can become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Source: https://guardian.ng/features/agro-care/how-to-harness-nigerias-untapped-agriculture-potential/