15 July 2008
Lagos — Former Minister of External Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi has called on Nigerians to embrace commercial farming as a potent tool for combating global food crisis.
Akinyemi, who made the call in Ilorin during a visit to the Kwara state governor, Dr. Bukola Saraki admonished all the other state governors to take a cue from the Kwara state governor by embarking on commercial agriculture in their respective states.
The former minister, who is also a member of the presidential committee on the Electoral Reforms, stated that, "I was fascinated with what I saw during our committee's visit last month and this explained why I have come and my calls on other governors in the country in that regards."
He stated that the achievements recorded by the administration in the state especially in mechanised farming had proved that agriculture is not only key to curbing food crisis but equally essential in reducing the poverty levels.
Akinyemi who was also a former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), explained further "as a scholar I was inquisitive to enquire from the governor the secret behind his success particularly in the transformation and the growing economy he has brought to the state and indeed his foray into mechanised farming."
Commending Governor Saraki for distinguishing himself as a selfless leader, he charged political office holders in the country to manifest similar commitment towards improving the people's well-being, stressing that "democracy is all about improving the well-being of the people and the leaders should demonstrate sincere commitment to the service of their people."
Responding in a separate interview with reporters, the governor said "I was humbled by the former minister's remarks and this will further challenge us to do more in the service to our people."
He added that the advice of the eminent scholar on the need to document the modest achievement would be utilised so that the coming generations benefit and learn about best agricultural practices put in place.
In the same vein the Chairman House Committee on Agriculture House of Representatives Hon. Makanjuola Gbenga has said that the federal government is about to put in place a private partnership programme (PPP) to ensure the participation of private investors in the agricultural sector.
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