Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advocated for a shift away from direct federal government involvement in agriculture and agribusiness, suggesting that states are better positioned to leverage their land, resources, manpower, innovations, and infrastructure through collaboration with private partners to develop comprehensive food security and nutrition strategies.
Obasanjo said this at the Agribusiness for food security initiative summit held at the international institute for Agriculture (IITA) Ibadan .
He commended the efforts of women in agribusiness and encouraged their continued participation, recognizing the potential for food security and nutrition to create employment opportunities, boost foreign exchange earnings and increase internal revenue generation.
In his own remarks at the event the Oyo state governor Seyi Makinde stress that the Agribusiness for Food Security" initiative will served as a platform for stakeholders to champion a collaborative approach.
Makinde highlighted its potential to not only reduce poverty but also drive economic liberation and ensure access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for the entire nation.
He envisioned a future where Oyo State transitions from a state with struggling farmers to a hub where diverse individuals can contribute across the agribusiness industry, particularly in research and development aimed at boosting productivity.
Earlier, Dr. Simeon Ehui, Director General of IITA, underscored the forum's aim to address pressing food security issues and drive positive change.
He stressed the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment to investment as key drivers of food security.
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