In a bid to address the challenge of food insecurity in the country, Nigerian youths have been advised to explore the potential in agriculture and promote a sustainable environment.
These were the submissions of discussants at a programme organised by the Youth Development Centre of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, on Monday, celebrating the 2024 International Youth Day.
The Programme has as its theme “Agbeloba: Exploring Cultural Ways To Transform Food Systems in Nigeria.”
Dr (Mrs) Bisi Kolapo, chairperson of the Centre, in her welcome address, said Nigerian youths must be actively involved in the fight against hunger that is ravaging the country, urging them to strive hard like the former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who was a retired military officer, a successful farmer and eventually nation’s president.
“You can always allow the life of the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo born in the village of Ibogun over 85 years ago to inspire you to be great in life.
“Notwithstanding Baba Obasanjo’s early struggle in life, he is today a renowned farmer, a world leader, an entrepreneur and a father to many across the world. You too must click to progress and greater heights as the theme of this year International Youth Day implies.
“You must join the efforts to tackle the prevailing hunger in the land by embracing agriculture. It is time for our youths to channel their productive energy to overcome the challenge of the food crisis in the country,” the Chairperson said.
The Centre Programme Officer, Miss Omolara Kehinde, encouraged the youths to engage in farming and use digital platforms to enhance food production, saying this would be in line with International Youth Day 2024 with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development”.
She said, “In Nigeria, transforming our food systems is essential for enhancing food security and central to this transformation is the concept of “farming what one can eat.
“By aligning agricultural practices with local consumption needs, we can harness our rich agricultural potential more effectively. This approach reduces reliance on imported food, supports local economies, and promotes healthier diets.
“Let us support digital inclusion and agricultural innovation to empower youth as leaders in creating sustainable food systems.
“Together, we can turn digital clicks into meaningful progress and build a future where every Nigerian enjoys food security and nutrition”.
The guest speakers, Mrs Temilade Kilaso and Adekemi Adeoye harped on the need for the youths to embrace green farming, having a friendly disposition towards preserving the environment and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Kilaso who spoke on “Embracing Modifiable Behaviour To Achieving Planetry Earth” urged the youth to imbibe proper waste management and lead the campaign against dumping of refuse in waterways all of which are obstacles to achieving a sustainable environment.
Adeoye said that investing in green skills, fostering intrapreneurship, and supporting entrepreneurship, would create a resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria that ensures food security for all.
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE