The Vice-President of the federal republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, has called on the 36 states governors of the federation to strive to develop the country’s agricultural sector in order to ensure food sufficiency.
According to a statement by the Vice-President’s spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima urged all the governors to do this with a view to reducing the dependence on food imports and attaining greater food self-sufficiency in Nigeria.
The VP, according to Nkwocha, noted that it resonates well with the investments and commitment of the African Development Bank (AfDB) to establishing Specialised Agro Processing Zones (SAPZ) in the country.
“Shettima also hinted at the possibility of engaging the private sector in tackling the problem of floods and other natural disasters.
The Vice-President added that considering the financial implications of managing natural disasters, the government cannot do it alone.
“While urging unity as the nation’s hope, I am aware of the financial implications of managing natural disasters. We cannot tackle this alone,” he continued.
“Innovative capital pools from the private sector can help share and mitigate fiscal and economic risks posed by such disasters.
“This approach has been successful in other African countries, preparing for low-probability yet highly disruptive ‘black swan’ events.
“Once again, we find ourselves bearing the weight of the nation. Since our last gathering, much has transpired, with each event punctuated by the nation’s reactions.
“None of us here requires a reminder of the direction we are headed or what is required to ensure that we stand together through the storm to fulfill our promises to the people.”
READ ALSO FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
and then