Gov Alia tells FG to invest in agro projects for food security

Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has urged the Federal Government to prioritize investments in agricultural projects within his state, renowned as the “food basket of the nation.”

The governor emphasized that such investments would play a vital role in ensuring food security not just for Benue State but for all Nigerians.

Speaking to journalists after meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, who has a strong inclination towards agriculture, Governor Alia stressed the urgent need for collective efforts to elevate the nation’s status in terms of food production and security. He underlined the importance of combining visionary thinking with practical actions to help the country transition from challenging times to a prosperous era of abundance in food supply and overall state stability.

“We need everyone with the thinking and with the actions that can help us to move from grass to grace in terms of food, food security, and basic state security,” Alia told journalists after meeting Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House on Wednesday evening.

Highlighting the significance of the “food basket” designation, Governor Alia reminded Vice President Shettima of Benue State’s vital role in the nation’s food production. He expressed optimism that with the Federal Government’s support, the state could achieve peak food production levels, not only benefiting the people of Benue but also contributing significantly to food security at the national level.

During the meeting, the Governor applauded the appointment of former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress. He conveyed his confidence in the new leadership’s capabilities, expressing hope that they would usher in a transformative era in Nigerian politics and governance. Governor Alia shared his belief that the new leadership would prioritize essential issues such as food security and sustainable agricultural development to meet the needs of the Nigerian population.