The Federal Government has been urged to work alongside governors and local government Chairmen across the nation to provide funding and resources to real farmers, in order to prevent these funds from being misappropriated by unscrupulous middlemen.
Eze Linus Nto Mbah, the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, made this statement on Saturday during the celebration of the new yam festival in his community, Ata Igboukwu Umuzimgbo in Arochukwu LGA.
He emphasized that true farmers, who are essential to the country’s food production, are primarily located at the grassroots level but are often exploited by individuals posing as middlemen in the distribution of loans, grants, and other agricultural resources.
“Government at all levels must be proactive in promoting agriculture, ensuring food security, and combating hunger and starvation.
They should provide farming equipment, low-interest loans, and grants to bolster food production in the nation. While praising President Bola Tinubu for his support of farmers, Eze Mbah stated:
“I encourage him to collaborate with state Governors and local government Chairmen to ensure that such assistance reaches the genuine farmers at the grassroots level.”
He also mentioned that Nigerian youths should be motivated to return to farming, as it would help address unemployment, alleviate hunger, and mitigate insecurity.
He acknowledged Governor Alex Otti’s efforts in providing financial support and modern training for farmers in Abia.
During the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti praised Eze Linus Nto Mbah for preserving his community’s culture, assuring that his administration is dedicated to maintaining rural access roads to facilitate the transportation of farm products to urban areas where food is in demand.