The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has assured farmers and pastoralists in Udobo, Gamawa community in Bauchi, of Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding their land rights and enhancing food security.
Tuggar made this statement on Sunday during a community engagement on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, in Bauchi, stating that between the 1960s and 1970s, Udobo was the hub for Nigeria’s agricultural output.
The minister also revealed that the community had been largely neglected by the state government for decades, warning that land grabbing would not be tolerated, as he called for collaboration among stakeholders, in order to drive agricultural innovation and sustainability.
He therefore explained that the inauguration of the Irrigate Nigeria Project in Gamawa, Bauchi State, aimed to reduce food imports, secure Nigeria’s agricultural future, and distribute rice, motorcycles, and environmentally-friendly cooking stoves, so as to mitigate tree felling in the state.
Tuggar therefore acknowledged the impact of floods and climate change on agriculture, as he emphasised the need for urgent government support.
He further reiterated President Tinubu’s strategy for Udobo and similar communities, assuring farmers that their land would be protected.
9News Nigeria reports that some of his words were; “No one will lose their land. Grow what you eat first; we will help you sell the surplus.”
“Food security is national security. “Udobo’s revival symbolised our resolve: a Nigeria where no farmer fears progress,” he stated.
The minister also used the opportunity to reassure the community that the president’s promise to cushion the impact of economic reforms would soon be fulfilled through microcredit schemes and subsidised machinery.
Tuggar further revealed that, with support from the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, NASENI, the government would optimise water access through Udobo’s fadama wetlands.
