Ex-President Jonathan Urges Multi-Faceted Approach to Boost Agriculture, Peace

By Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja 

Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has urged Nigerian leaders to implement a multi-faceted strategy including community engagement, investment in security infrastructure, and collaboration with local farmers to strengthen the agricultural sector.

His remarks were made at an event organised by the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) to commemorate the 2024 International Day of Peace in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Jonathan emphasised the critical role of effective leadership in tackling the escalating insecurity that has crippled agricultural activities in many parts of the country. He argued that food security and national development are intrinsically linked to peace and stability.

“Quality leadership goes beyond promises. It requires concrete, actionable plans that prioritise the safety and well-being of citizens. When people feel secure, they are more likely to invest in agriculture, directly contributing to food production and availability,” Jonathan said.

The former president expressed concern over the impact of banditry, terrorism, and communal clashes on Nigeria’s agricultural sector, warning that the situation has led to food shortages and increased prices.

“Food security is becoming a major challenge in our country and other countries across the continent today because many of our farmers can no longer go to the farms and this has a multiplier effect on the economy,” he said.

Dr. Jonathan emphasised the need to invest more in peace initiatives and pay greater attention to issues of human security, stating that the nation’s development and economic growth are closely linked to the country’s peace and stability level.

He also called for a shift in mindset towards fostering a culture of peace in Nigeria and across Africa. He warned that political conflicts, particularly during elections, would persist unless a culture of peaceful resolution and dialogue is cultivated.

“Until we get to that level where we develop the culture of peace, in this country, we will always have political conflicts in our election. And without us strengthening that effort, without us developing that culture of testing a nation peacefully, we will always be in conflict in Africa and in Nigeria,” he added.

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The former president urged the government to revitalise initiatives that provide access to resources, training, and markets, highlighting the importance of inclusive governance, dialogue, and education in fostering long-term peace.

He emphasised that inclusive governance is key to addressing grievances and preventing conflicts, adding that dialogue and negotiation were solutions to entrenched disputes, while education, economic empowerment, and social justice are vital for peace.

He stressed that strong institutions ensure accountability, and empowering future generations with peace education supports sustainable development, adding that without peace meaningful development is impossible.

The Director General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, reaffirmed the current administration’s commitment to creating a secure environment that fosters agricultural growth through its Renewed Hope Agenda. He expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its challenges and ensure food security for all.

“We believe that the current administration will create a safe environment that fosters agricultural growth and ensures that every Nigerian has access to sufficient and nutritious food. Together, we will build a future where insecurity is a thing of the past and food availability is a guarantee,” he said.

In a lecture during the event, Dr. Samuel Iroye, Head of the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies at the National Open University of Nigeria, emphasised that all Nigerians must take part in promoting a culture of peace. He stressed that peace is not just an ideology but a practical experience that can be achieved through the engagement of young people in development initiatives.

The event also featured a drama performance, an award presentation, and the symbolic release of a Peace Dove, all aimed at raising awareness of the importance of peace in building a prosperous nation.