Abuja: The Federal Government has emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, serving as a fundamental driver of food security, job creation, and poverty reduction. This assertion was made by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, during the Annual Ministerial Reward and Recognition Ceremony held on Monday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organized to acknowledge excellence, commitment, and innovation within the ministry, under the theme: ‘Nurturing Dedication, Growing Sustainable Agriculture.’ Kyari highlighted the theme’s significance, noting that it underscores the critical role of commitment in developing a sustainable agricultural sector.
The minister underscored that sustainable agriculture does not happen by chance but through the dedication of farmers, researchers, policymakers, and partners who are all integral to building a future of food security. He stated that agriculture continues to be the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, especially in the face of global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and economic uncertainty. Sustainable practices, he noted, are essential to meet current needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs.
Kyari further highlighted that the award recipients had shown exceptional commitment to advancing agricultural development and sustainability in the country. Their dedication, he said, exemplifies how passion, hard work, and vision can turn challenges into opportunities, cultivating national prosperity.
The ceremony also served as a platform to motivate others to pursue excellence and nurture dedication within the workforce, aiming to grow a sustainable agricultural sector to feed the nation and strengthen the economy for future generations.
Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, remarked that the ceremony celebrated excellence and dedication, reinforcing agriculture’s role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic development. He aligned the event with the Federal Government’s reform agenda, particularly the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025, which encourages a performance-driven culture within the civil service.
Dr. Abdul Garba, Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, commended Kyari for fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation in accordance with public service rules. Represented by Mr. Agodi Emmanuel, he stated that such initiatives would boost staff motivation, enhance productivity, and contribute to the ministry’s overall success.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that awardees included notable figures such as Mr. Obasi Ikemefuna, Dr. Christiana Malgwi, and Mr. Pente Kelvin. Mr. Ayodele Olawumi, responding on behalf of the awardees, expressed gratitude to the ministry’s leadership for the recognition.