FG Ramps Up Push For Food Sufficiency Through Public-Private Partnership
In a bold move to boost Nigeria’s food self-sufficiency, the Federal Government says it is deepening collaboration with state governments and the private sector to grow agricultural investment and cut down on food imports.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this during a tour of key agro-industrial facilities in Niger State, including Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited in New Bussa and the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone in Amfani.
He described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s creation of the Ministries of Marine and Blue Economy and Livestock Development as “visionary,” stressing that they were designed to strengthen food systems and curb import dependency—particularly for fish and dairy.
“The President understands that food security is fundamental to our sovereignty,” Idris said, praising the tilapia fish farm for helping to close the gap in one of Nigeria’s most-consumed but heavily imported proteins.
The farm currently produces 1,000 metric tonnes of fish, with plans to expand to 5,000 tonnes in four years—an effort the Minister said would create jobs and offer hope to unemployed youth.
At the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone, Idris urged both local and international investors to tap into the massive infrastructure being developed, including an airport, power substations, a university, and even a golf course.
Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, echoed the enthusiasm, describing the projects as “perfectly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.” He stressed that home-grown processing and production would conserve foreign exchange and energise Nigeria’s industrial base.
Backers of both projects appealed to the Bank of Industry for support, with Hydropolis requesting a ₦10 billion facility to fast-track development.
With over ₦30 billion already invested in the zone, and aquaculture production poised to rise, the Federal Government’s message is clear: the path to national prosperity lies in homegrown solutions powered by strong partnerships.
