Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has emphasised that agriculture remains central to the government’s economic agenda, describing food security as essential to national stability.
Idris made the remarks in Abuja during the Quarterly Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement Session organised by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
He said the forum reflects the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
“This gathering reflects the governing philosophy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rooted in transparency, participation, and accountability. Governance must be open, responsive, and anchored on dialogue with the people,” Idris said.
He commended the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, for initiatives aimed at boosting food production.
Idris said; “Food security is national security. A nation that feeds itself strengthens independence, stabilizes prices, creates jobs, and reduces poverty.”
The Minister noted that upon assuming office, the administration inherited significant economic challenges, including fiscal pressures, subsidy burdens, exchange rate distortions, and declining investor confidence.
He said; “President Tinubu took difficult but necessary decisions to stabilise the economy and lay a foundation for sustainable growth. These reforms were essential for Nigeria’s long-term future.”
The Minister highlighted that the reforms are already yielding results, including increased government revenue, improved investor confidence, and clarity in the unified exchange rate.
“Enhanced government revenues allow federal, state, and local governments to execute more projects and meet critical obligations,” he explained.
The Minister also pointed to progress in national security, increased operational support for security agencies, and strengthened intelligence and coordination.
On infrastructure, Idris noted initiatives such as road rehabilitation, railway modernisation, power sector reforms, and expansion of digital infrastructure, stressing that these efforts aim to boost productivity, create jobs, and expand opportunities for Nigerians.
On social development, he highlighted programmes targeting the groups and youth empowerment, citing the student loan scheme, improvements in primary healthcare, and targeted social investment initiatives.
Idris reiterated the Ministry of Information’s role in keeping Nigerians informed about government policies and ensuring accountability.
“Communication is not propaganda; it is accountability. Citizens must be informed and able to provide feedback,” he said.
Idris assured that the administration remains committed to measurable progress through sustained reforms, transparency, and stakeholder collaboration.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a slogan; it is a structured programme of economic stabilisation, institutional reform, infrastructure renewal, and human development,” he added.
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Speaking at the same session, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the government is intensifying efforts to transform Nigeria’s agricultural and food systems through targeted programmes, strategic partnerships, and sustained investments.
Kyari stressed that the ministry is working closely with farmers, the private sector, and development partners to improve agricultural productivity and value chains.
“Since assuming office, this administration has made food security a top priority, acknowledging its critical role in national stability and sovereignty,” he said, adding that initiatives in fertiliser distribution, mechanisation, improved seeds, irrigation, and farmer support programmes are already increasing agricultural output.
Stakeholders at the gathering noted that improved security in farming communities and transportation corridors is helping revive agricultural production and commercial activities.