FG Reaffirms Commitment to Kebbi State
…Prioritizes Agricultural Resilience
By Patience Ikpeme
In a demonstration of solidarity with Kebbi State and its agricultural sector, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, visited the state to reaffirm the Federal Government’s commitment to local economic development and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
The Minister’s visit was prompted by the devastating impact of flooding on agricultural productivity in Kebbi State. In a statement signed by Mohammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Edun emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to strengthening local economies and addressing the pressing challenges posed by natural disasters.
To mitigate the effects of flooding, the Federal Government, through the National Economic Council (NEC), has allocated N3 billion each to the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory. These funds are earmarked for flood control, mitigation, and preparedness efforts, with a particular focus on supporting local farmers and protecting the agricultural sector.
During his visit, Mr. Edun, accompanied by Kebbi State Governor Dr. Nasir Idris and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, toured the WACOT Rice Limited facility in Argungu. This state-of-the-art rice processing plant, with an annual milling capacity of 120,000 metric tons, plays a vital role in supporting thousands of local farmers through its extensive procurement network and out-grower farming programs.
The visit also included a visit to a rice farm affected by flooding, highlighting the urgent need for support to protect agricultural productivity in the region. Mr. Edun commended the resilience of the local community and reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to improving security and boosting productive capacity across the state. He encouraged increased private sector investment in agriculture to further expand production and solidify Nigeria’s position as a leading agricultural producer.
The Minister’s visit to Kebbi State underscored the Federal Government’s dedication to supporting local farmers, mitigating the impact of natural disasters, and fostering collaboration between the government and the private sector. By working together, Nigeria can enhance agricultural resilience, drive economic growth, and ensure a more prosperous future for its citizens.
