The Agriculture/Agro-Wealth Development Initiative has unveiled a blueprint to complement government efforts in achieving food sufficiency and security in Nigeria.

The project was launched during the NGO’s National Green Revolution Summit 2025, themed “Unveiling Strategies for Sustainable Agricultural Growth’’ on Saturday in Abuja.

The CEO and President of AAWDI, Rekiya Amedu, stated that the initiative was designed to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensure food availability for all citizens.

She described as unfortunate that Nigeria continues to be listed among countries battling hunger amid its abundant human and natural resources.

She added, “It is unfortunate to hear that Nigeria is mentioned among countries facing hunger, despite the blessings God has bestowed upon us; arable land, water resources, and a large population capable of cultivating the soil. We have the capacity to feed not only Africa but also become the food basket of the world. It pains us at AAWDI to see Nigeria labelled a hungry nation. As family farmers of AAWDI, we have resolved not to allow ourselves to be dragged through the mud. Instead, we will contribute our quota to lift our nation out of hunger.’’

According to her, the blueprint contains numerous strategies.

She stated, “Look at how God has blessed us with abundant water, yet we rely solely on rainfall to cultivate the land. We have a fast-growing population, which we should harness to produce food all year round. But instead, we wait for rains in April and May, and once they stop in September or October, we return to a state of hunger.’’

She emphasised the need for Nigeria to think outside the box, make food more available, and use agriculture to create jobs for its large population of unemployed youth.

Ms Amedu further stated that AAWDI would share knowledge, break barriers, and boost food availability through its strategic plans. It will also build the capacity and resilience of young people so they can make meaningful contributions.

She revealed that the organisation would utilise its AgroWealth App, designed in multiple local languages, to educate youth and farmers in both rural and urban areas on innovative farming techniques.

Ms Amedu also disclosed that AAWDI would collaborate with security agencies to address the insecurity affecting farmers and their farmlands, using local security personnel.

AAWDI’s National Director of Administration, Abubakar Abdullahi, pointed out that hunger was one of the root causes of insecurity in the country.

He said the organisation aims to tackle hunger among vulnerable groups, including the less privileged and those in correctional facilities.

He stated, “AAWDI will support the vulnerable in society through charitable activities. Feeding all Nigerians is a core objective of our organisation. Once hunger is reduced, insecurity will also decline.’’

He added that the organisation would collaborate with the government by raising and training local security personnel within communities, who will then work alongside conventional security agencies.

AAWDI’s National Director of Training and Strategy, Joseph Nduka, described the organisation’s approach as multi-dimensional.

He stressed the need for government collaboration to create an enabling environment for farmers.

According to Mr Nduka, certain policies still hinder agricultural development in Nigeria, citing the Land Use Act of 1978, which prevents willing farmers from accessing land.

He acknowledged government efforts in providing incentives such as fertilisers and seedlings, noting that these inputs often do not reach grass-roots farmers, who are the primary users.

Mr Nduka said AAWDI would work with the government to dismantle such barriers, adding that the organisation already had structures in place across all 36 states and the FCT to implement its strategies.

He added, “We are rolling out a training programme called Smart Agricultural Support Training. We will train farmers in organic farming, hydroponics, and the production of organic fertilisers and pesticides.”

(NAN)