First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has emphasised the need to empower youth in agriculture, citing a disconnect between reality and fiction.
Receiving the Management team of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADFUND) at the State House, Mrs. Tinubu stressed the importance of catching young people early and instilling positive values.
According to a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady expressed commitment to supportinng President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in delivering democratic dividends, particularly for women and youth.
Mrs. Tinubu’s focus on youth empowerment in agriculture aligns with the government’s efforts to revitalize the sector and ensure food security.
She noted that the unavailability of farming land due to urbanization should not be a hindrance, as people can engage in smart gardening.
She explained that the proposed Young Farmers Club by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) which would be launched very soon in public primary and secondary schools, will further sustain the current food sufficiency drive by the federal government.
“We have a lot to show our youth and I believe the time is now. There is a huge disconnect between reality and fiction. There is a need to catch them young and have them do right. Once the children get it, it would be easy to bring it home.”
“My being here is to support my husband and ensure we are able to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people and see what we can do especially for the women and youth,” she said.
Executive Secretary of the NADFUND, Mohammed Ibrahim, commended the various Agric centered programs of the RHI by the First Lady, particularly, the Women in Agric Support Program (WASP), the Young Farmers Club and the #Every Home a Garden competition.
“The competition and your own garden show exemplary leadership from you. This further emphasizes that ensuring food security is everyone’s responsibility”
The Executive Secretary disclosed that the Agency is willing to collaborate with the RHI especially in the areas of mentorship, training and logistics for women farmers across States of the Federation.
Mohammed Ibrahim also presented the document of the aims and mission of NADFUND to the First Lady.