WORLD FOOD DAY: AGRIC COMMISSIONER ADVOCATES SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION
By Chukwuka Ugokwe :
The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, has called on stakeholders to collaborate with the state government in its transformative journey in the agricultural sector.
The commissioner made this known during a press briefing to mark this year’s World Food Day celebrated annually on October 16.
Dr Ihejiofor emphasized that collaboration among stakeholders is essential to delivering economic growth and improving the wellbeing of the state’s population.
He urged communities, stakeholders, and individuals to join global efforts aimed at achieving food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
“The theme for this year’s celebration, “Food for Better Life and Better Future,” reflects the pressing need to establish sustainable food systems and address the global hunger crisis, currently affecting over 733 million people worldwide.
“In Anambra, we understand that food security goes beyond mere availability. It encompasses nutrition, safety, access, utilization, and stability.
“This is a critical issue that influences our social and economic landscape, and it underscores our commitment to building sustainable agricultural systems,” Ihejiofor noted.
He outlined several projects spearheaded by the state government, including the free distribution of 2.2 million combined oil palm and staple crop seedlings to over 250,000 residents.
“These efforts are aimed at improving food security, building livelihood resilience, and fostering sustainable economic growth along the agricultural value chain.”
Other key initiatives include the “Farm to Feed” campaign, various completed and ongoing statewide infrastructural projects, as well as workshops and training programs.
Upcoming events, such as farmers’ markets, a food security symposium, and community outreach programs, are also part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to support the agricultural sector.
“As we celebrate World Food Day, we must recommit to our regenerative agricultural policies, which protect the environment, enhance productivity, and ensure that every citizen has access to healthy, nutritious food,” Ihejiofor added.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, emphasized the importance of maximizing the limited agricultural land available by making efficient use of resources to improve food security.
She also highlighted various activities undertaken by the ministry to commemorate this year’s World Food Day.
These include a road walk to raise awareness and a tour of backyard demonstration farms as part of the “Farm to Feed” program, and the “Healthy Living Initiative” introduced by the State Governor’s wife, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo.
*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State