- He said this at an event organized by the African Development Bank Group
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has announced plans to enact laws to enhance funding for agricultural activities, aiming to secure national food security.
Abbas highlighted the uncertain future of crude oil and the necessity of diversifying Nigeria’s economy, particularly through agriculture.
Speaking at an event organized by the African Development Bank Group in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Commission, Abbas, represented by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, underscored the importance of this sector.
“We are dedicated to establishing a robust legislative framework that supports agricultural banks or financial institutions, enabling them to provide low-interest loans to farmers,” Abbas stated. He stressed the urgency of investing in agriculture as the global shift towards greener energy makes reliance on oil unsustainable.
The speaker also called on the African Development Bank to continue its partnership with the Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa to drive significant progress. He noted that agriculture and information technology offer vast potential for economic growth and sustainability, particularly for empowering youth and women.
Abbas reaffirmed the 10th House’s commitment to youth development and collaboration with the executive branch to launch public work programs focusing on infrastructure and agriculture.