Kehinde Fajobi
The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to depoliticise agriculture by establishing a community data bank of genuine farmers for all support programmes.
This appeal was made in a 16-point communique following their 3rd National Conference, themed “Strategic Solutions for Good Governance, Food Security and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria,” held at the Abuja Continental Hotel earlier this week.
The communique, signed by Mukhtar Shehu Shagari (Deputy National Chairman, North), Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi (Deputy National Chairman, South), and Comrade Chris Alozie Akomas (National Chairman), stressed the need for the government to create agricultural hubs and enhance security for these areas. They recommended that community vigilante groups complement national security efforts.
The forum advocated for the introduction of modern technology in agriculture, including advanced equipment and high-yield seeds, to increase food production. They also called for the revamping of the Bank of Agriculture to better fulfil its responsibilities.
Emphasising the urgent need to strengthen agricultural institutions and connect them with relevant research centres, the former deputy governors highlighted the importance of promoting youth entrepreneurship through agricultural extension centres and demonstration farms.
The communique noted, “Entrenching good governance is imperative for achieving food security and sustainable growth in Nigeria as the central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.”
Furthermore, the forum encouraged governors to foster harmonious relationships with their deputies to promote sustainable democratic governance in Nigeria.
In addition, they called for open and inclusive consultations for economic policy with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, ensuring that funds from external borrowings are effectively used for productive activities and public infrastructure development.
They proposed that laws should be enacted to compel governments at both federal and state levels to complete ongoing projects before initiating new ones.
In closing, Comrade Chris Akomas, the Convener of the conference, reiterated the forum’s commitment to offering valuable suggestions for good governance in Nigeria. He stated, “Achieving a country of our collective dreams requires the collective effort of all,” underscoring the importance of nation-building.