The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has called for more investments in the seed industry to ensure food security in the country.
Kalu who made the call in Abuja while declaring open the 6th Edition of Seed Connect Africa Conference & Exhibition 2023, stated that investing in research and innovation will empower farmers to produce more and contribute to a more food-secure and prosperous Nigeria.
With over 157 registered seed companies, Nigeria emerged as a regional leader in seed production and export. In 2019, the country accounted for 60% of the total seeds marketed in West Africa. This impressive export volume, the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu said highlights Nigeria’s capacity to contribute to regional food security efforts.
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Commending the National Agricultural Seed Council for its unwavering dedication to the growth and development of Nigeria’s seed industry, the minister of state for Agriculture and food security, Senator Abdullahi Sabi urged the participants to explore innovative solutions to address the challenges and opportunities in the seed industry.
With the theme “Global Declaration of Food Emergency – The Role of Seed Industry in Africa,” participants called for
urgent measures and determination to amplify the critical role of the seed industry in addressing the pressing issues of food security in the continent.
(Editor : Ena Agbanoma)
