By Daniel Tyokua
The Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat of Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has said it will renew collaboration with strategic research institutes on how to boost food production and security in the territory.
Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat (ARDS), Lawan Geidam, gave the indication on Friday, when he s visited the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
He said the visit was in continuation of his familiarisation tour of agricultural facilities and institutions in the FCT.
Geidam said the goal of strengthening the synergy with research institutes was to boost food production and enhance food security.
He stressed the critical role research institutes play in achieving sustainable agricultural development.
Specifically, he acknowledged the valuable expertise and resources that research institutes offer, particularly in sharing knowledge of agricultural innovations and technological practices amongst farmers in rural communities.
“The FCTA recognises that a robust agricultural sector is vital for food security, economic growth, and job creation particularly in the FCT, currently grappling with a rapidly increasing population.
“This is why FCT Administration will be strengthening synergy with your institute as well as other relevant organisations to leverage your knowledge and experience.
“This will enable us to address challenges and implement effective strategies for agricultural transformation,” he said.
He explained that the familiarisation tour was to gain first-hand insights into the existing agricultural landscape, identify areas for improvement and assess the potential for collaboration with other organisations.
Geidam also visited the FCT Livestock Markets in Kugbo and Deidei; Nyanya Veterinary Clinic; Karu Abattoir and Kado Fish Market among others.
At the Karu abattoir, the Secretary told the butchers and veterinary doctors that the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike had given him a matching order to implement programmes that would revitalise the sector.
He assured the butchers that a holistic approach would be articulated and presented to the FCTA for implementation.
“Our plan, in line with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of the present administration, is to reinvigorate the agricultural sector to contribute to food security.
“This will be done by increasing local production and reducing dependence on imported agricultural products.
“We are also looking forward to an agriculture sector that can create employment, improve income generation for farmers, and stimulate economic growth in rural areas,” he said.
