Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize agricultural development as a means to reshape its economic future. Speaking at the inauguration of the Edo Agricultural Hub on Tuesday in Benin, Obaseki described the initiative as a crucial part of efforts to drive economic growth, ensure food security, and promote sustainable development within the state.
Over the past eight years, Obaseki’s administration has concentrated on establishing a strong foundation for a progressive and prosperous Edo, with the goal of positioning the state among Africa’s leading sub-nationals.
“I appreciate former Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; our achievements are partly due to continuing his successful policies,” Obaseki stated. He highlighted the administration’s success in de-risking agriculture, supporting farmers, and prioritizing investments in the sector to enhance agricultural productivity.
Obaseki underscored that agriculture is not only the backbone of Edo but also a significant contributor to Nigeria’s GDP. He stressed its importance, particularly in ensuring food security amid rising food costs that have left many Nigerians struggling to afford basic meals.
“To achieve self-sufficiency, Nigeria must prioritize local food production instead of relying on imported food, which undermines national food security,” he said. The governor expressed concern over the nation’s annual expenditure of over $500 million on imported dairy products, asserting that Nigeria possesses the potential to develop its own dairy industry with effective leadership.
Governor Obaseki’s remarks reflect a broader vision for transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and enhancing the nation’s economic resilience through local food production.
