The Federal Government has reaffirmed that achieving food security remains critical to Nigeria’s economic stability, national independence, and poverty reduction.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known during the Quarterly Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement Session organised by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The event took place on Friday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

Idris said agriculture occupies a strategic place in the broader economic reform agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that the government is implementing policies and programmes aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening food supply chains.

According to him, ensuring adequate food production is essential to national development.

“Food security is national security. A nation that feeds itself strengthens its independence, stabilises prices, creates jobs and reduces poverty,” he said.

The minister explained that the engagement session reflects the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizens’ participation in governance. He added that the government remains dedicated to keeping Nigerians informed and involved in the policy-making process.

“Governance must not operate in isolation from the people; it must be open, responsive and anchored on dialogue. Today’s engagement demonstrates this administration’s commitment to keeping Nigerians informed and involved,” Idris stated.

He noted that when the current administration assumed office, the country faced several economic challenges, including fiscal pressures, the burden of subsidy payments, and distortions in the foreign exchange market. These, he said, required bold reforms to stabilise the economy and position it for sustainable growth.

Idris added that although the reforms were difficult, they were necessary and are already beginning to yield positive outcomes, including improved government revenue, renewed investor confidence, and stronger engagement with international partners.

The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts by the government to improve security in farming communities and along major transportation routes. He noted that the improved security situation is encouraging farmers to return to their farms and helping to boost agricultural production.

He further stated that the government is investing significantly in infrastructure such as roads, railways, electricity, and digital connectivity to support economic growth and improve access to markets for agricultural produce.

Idris said human capital development also remains a major focus of the administration. He cited initiatives including the student loan programme, improvements in primary healthcare services, and targeted social investment programmes designed to assist vulnerable households and support small businesses.

He commended the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, for organising the stakeholders’ engagement forum, describing it as an important platform for dialogue between government and citizens on policies aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s food security framework.

The minister added that the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation would continue to bridge the gap between government policies and public understanding by ensuring that citizens remain well informed about the objectives and progress of the administration’s reforms.

“Communication is not propaganda; it is accountability. It ensures that citizens understand government initiatives and have the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback,” he said.

He also urged stakeholders, development partners, civil society organisations, and the media to continue supporting efforts to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector and build a more resilient food system.

Speaking at the event, Kyari said the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to transform Nigeria’s agricultural and food systems through targeted programmes, strategic partnerships, and sustained investments across key agricultural value chains.

He explained that the ministry is working closely with farmers, development partners, private sector players, and other stakeholders to boost agricultural productivity, strengthen value chains, and ensure that food remains available, accessible, and affordable for Nigerians.

“Since assuming office, this administration has made food security a top priority, acknowledging the critical role it plays in maintaining national stability and sovereignty,” Kyari said.

The minister added that ongoing initiatives in fertiliser distribution, mechanisation, improved seeds, irrigation systems, and farmer support programmes are already contributing to increased agricultural output and strengthening the country’s food security framework.