Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has called on Nigerians to elevate the agricultural sector as a means to boost the nation’s economy and address urgent food security concerns. Speaking at the recent inauguration of the Edo Agriculture Hub in Benin City, Obaseki highlighted his administration’s efforts to revitalize agriculture, with an emphasis on supporting farmers and creating a more resilient food system as he prepares to transition power to the incoming All Progressives Congress (APC) government under Monday Okpebholo.
Obaseki outlined the progress made over his eight-year tenure, noting investments in agricultural education and resources aimed at positioning Edo among Africa’s leading sub-national economies. “We’ve laid the groundwork for a strong and prosperous Edo by establishing institutions like the Edo State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources,” he said. “This foundation has contributed to Edo’s current standing among leading agricultural economies on the continent.”
Highlighting the impact of agriculture on the economy, Obaseki explained that the sector remains a cornerstone of Edo’s and Nigeria’s GDP, and critical to ensuring economic stability. He stressed the urgency of reducing dependence on imported food by utilizing Edo’s abundant land resources to boost local food production. “If we are serious about turning around our fortunes, we must prioritize agriculture. Food security cannot be taken for granted anymore, especially as more Nigerians face challenges in accessing daily meals,” he stated.
The Edo Agriculture Hub, which houses 15 agencies and agricultural programs, is a key initiative in the state’s vision for sustainable agriculture. Obaseki pointed out that the hub includes all essential facilities for food production, cultivation, and distribution, aiming to meet the food needs of Edo’s population and produce surpluses for export. He added that the hub is designed for long-term expansion to accommodate additional programs over the next decade.
In his concluding remarks, Obaseki emphasized the need for governments across Nigeria to focus on food security, asserting that a secure nation must be self-reliant in food production. “We can’t continue relying on external sources to feed our people. By maximizing our agricultural potential, we can strengthen both state and national security,” he said, reinforcing the role of the agriculture hub as a blueprint for achieving food independence.
