By Okon Okon
The Federal Government on Tuesday, reaffirmed its commitment to agricultural transformation as a key pillar of national development.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, gave the reassurance at the inauguration of the Board of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) in Abuja.
Akume, who conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu, said the event marked an important milestone in positioning NALDA to deliver more effectively on its mandate.
He said NALDA had the statutory responsibility of eradicating poverty through agricultural land development, enhancing food security, creating employment opportunities and transforming rural communities.
According to him, NALDA has recorded notable progress through initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estates, currently ongoing in several locations across the country.
He explained that the estates were being developed as modern mechanised agricultural hubs, integrating irrigation systems, processing infrastructure and clustered settlements for farmers.
The SGF added that the Renewed Hope Restoration Project, a smaller-scale version of the mega farm estates, was targeted at persons of concern.
He said the Green Hope Project was also promoting climate-smart greenhouse farming for year-round fruits and vegetable production.
Akume further said that the Aqua Hope Project was expanding opportunities in aquaculture through structured fish farming systems designed to improve productivity and sustainability.
”These initiatives are already contributing to increased food production, job creation and rural development.
”They also align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises food security, economic diversification and inclusive growth,” he said.
Akume said NALDA was expected to scale up its programmes across more states, strengthen the use of technology and expand opportunities for youths and women in agriculture.
He urged members of the newly inaugurated board to provide strategic direction, effective oversight and management support toward achieving the authority’s mandate.
”I congratulate the chairman and members of the board and wish you a successful tenure,” he said.
Responding, Chairman of the NALDA Board, Mr Kabir Barkiya, thanked the Federal Government for the confidence reposed in the board.
Barkiya said the board was committed to providing strategic direction, ensuring sound governance and upholding transparency and accountability in the discharge of its duties.
He pledged the board’s support to the authority in translating government policies into tangible outcomes that would positively impact Nigerians.
According to him, the board will work closely with the management and staff of NALDA to unlock agricultural potential, promote inclusive participation, empower farmers and drive sustainable growth.
”Our focus will remain on delivering measurable results that will contribute meaningfully to food security, job creation and economic development.
”We will approach this responsibility with humility, dedication and determination to meet the expectations of Mr President and Nigerians,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deborah Coker
