Asaba, Delta State — At the 2024 World Food Day celebration, the Acting Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, called for comprehensive measures to address food insecurity and malnutrition, stressing the need for proactive government intervention. The event, held at the Cenotaph in Asaba, gathered stakeholders to discuss strategies for achieving zero hunger by 2030.
During his address, Sir Onyeme identified key challenges to food security, such as climate change, technological gaps, disruptions in input supply, and attacks on farmlands. He emphasized that the Delta State Government is actively working to support local farmers by removing these obstacles and promoting a stable agricultural environment.
“We are committed to encouraging smart agriculture and implementing laws that support livestock management,” Onyeme said. “The government is ensuring a consistent supply of essential agricultural inputs, including seedlings, seeds, agrochemicals, feeds, and fertilizers.”
He reminded attendees of the global observance of World Food Day on October 16, a day established by the United Nations to commemorate the founding of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) in 1945. This year’s theme, “Right to Foods for a Better Life and A Better Future,” focuses on food accessibility as a basic human right and a shared responsibility among governments, organizations, and individuals.
Sir Onyeme announced that Delta State has set up a committee on Food Security to ensure that the government’s efforts align with the theme’s goals. He revealed that over 6,000 farmers have already received support through a partnership with the African Union Development Agency, with plans to extend assistance to 2,000 more. Additionally, inputs will be distributed to 1,000 farmers engaged in cassava and rice production for the next dry season.
Encouraging public participation, the Acting Governor urged residents to explore various agricultural ventures, from crop farming to livestock rearing, as a way to combat hunger and boost the economy. “Investing in agribusiness is not only profitable but vital for ensuring a sustainable food supply in Delta State,” he remarked.
Hon. Ada Val Arenyeka, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing security issues that hinder agricultural progress. She highlighted that the ongoing crisis involving herdsmen is a significant obstacle, but assured that Delta State’s ban on open grazing aims to protect farmlands.
“Our priority is to make farms safe for our farmers by strictly enforcing anti-grazing laws,” Arenyeka affirmed. “We are also setting up ranches to support livestock businesses, creating a structured environment that promotes agricultural growth.”
Arenyeka introduced the “Small Homescale Farming” initiative, encouraging residents to grow food in their backyards, drawing from traditional farming practices. She explained that the government is committed to supporting both small-scale and professional farmers, including plans to revive livestock farming through grants, particularly for those affected by economic downturns like COVID-19.
Highlighting the economic potential of cash crops, she said, “Delta State is leading in the production of palm oil and rubber, thanks to companies like Presco Oil. We encourage more private individuals to invest in cash crop farming, which can be highly lucrative.”
Sir Oghoro Augustine E., Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, spoke about the importance of a collective approach to food security. He emphasized that individuals, alongside government and private sector efforts, must take responsibility by engaging in agriculture, even on a small scale.
“Everyone can contribute by cultivating crops in their backyard,” said Augustine. “The government will continue to provide support in the form of inputs, seeds, and technical assistance to help small-scale farmers thrive.”
He also addressed the issue of insecurity, suggesting that Delta State can adopt measures from other regions that continue to produce food despite security challenges. “We need to find ways to secure our farms, much like other parts of the country have done,” he stated.
From the farmer’s perspective, Mr. Solomon Odewo, President of Utagbunor Farm Settlement, acknowledged the difficulties farmers face but encouraged the public to view agriculture as a viable business opportunity. He pointed out that innovations in agriculture have reduced some of the labour-intensive aspects of farming, making it more accessible.
“There are still challenges, especially regarding inputs, but we are making headway,” Odewo shared. He urged the government to invest more in agriculture, highlighting that a robust agricultural sector can create jobs and drive economic growth.
The 2024 World Food Day celebration in Delta State highlighted the urgent need for coordinated efforts to enhance food security. It was a call for action for governments, private entities, and citizens to play their part in creating a sustainable food ecosystem. As the discussions underscored, a collaborative approach is essential to overcoming challenges and ensuring a future where everyone has access to nutritious food.
