MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY CALLS FOR CREATION OF AGRICULTURAL INSURANCE AND WEATHER ADVISORY DESKS AT THE COMMUNITY LEVEL 28-10-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari has called for the creation of agricultural insurance and weather advisory desks at the community level to enhance adaptation and resilience to climate change by smallholder farmers.
The Minister, represented by the Director, Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Services, Dr. Deola – Tayo Lordbanjou made the call during the Agricultural Insurance and Climate Advisory Round Table Meeting, held in Abuja.
He pointed out that making weather advisory services available at the right time at the community level would reduce the effect of climate change on the agricultural ecosystem and boost production.
Sen Kyari stated that the importance of insurance cover for farmers cannot be overemphasized stressing that it could help protect investments, increase productivity as well as livelihoods of farmers which will in turn aid the country in achieving food security objectives.
He also noted the growing frequency and severity of flood, drought, and other environmental disasters arising from climate change, adding that, farmers are particularly vulnerable to these disasters, and it sets them back each time it occurs by wiping off their investments.
He revealed that the Ministry is resolved to develop the agricultural sector towards the attainment of the objectives of SDGs especially those of zero hunger to improve sustainable agricultural practices.
The Minister however, lauded the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for its tireless efforts in strengthening social stability through social services and promotion of a more market-led economy that has enhanced Nigeria’s capacity as a responsible regional and trade partner.
The Director, Winrock International, Jean – Pierre Rousseau, in his response, stated that Agriculture Insurance and Weather Advisory Services have tremendous potential to transform the agricultural sector in Nigeria.
He pledged that the USAID, Feed the Future Programme, would continue to support the agriculture sector in Nigeria.