Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Umar Bago, the wife of the Niger State governor, has warned of an impending hunger crisis in Nigeria, citing the Cadre Harmonisé report, which predicted that over 33 million Nigerians may face severe food shortages by 2025.
Mrs Bago made this statement at the 10th edition of the Nutritious Food Fair and Decoration, organised by Harvest Plus in conjunction with the State Government in Minna.
She emphasised that under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Bago, the state aims to become the agricultural hub of Africa with its commitment to innovation in agriculture, demonstrating that food security is achievable.
She emphasised that for this reason, the state is working tirelessly to become the agricultural hub of Africa and is committed to innovation in agriculture to demonstrate that food security is achievable.
Mrs Bago also disclosed that in order to promote the integration of small livestock into household farming, the state government is prepared to support smallholder farmers’ access to biofortified crops in the state.
According to her, “these initiatives will offer a sustainable source of protein and additional income streams for families.”
She also explained that Niger State will prioritise training female agricultural extension officers and community health workers who will work directly with families to provide practical knowledge about integrating nutritious crops and small livestock into their daily lives.
Mrs Bago called on all stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, private sector actors, and community leaders, to join forces in building a system where every family has access to nutritious food.
She then thanked Harvest Plus for honouring her as the Smart Mother of Niger State.