The Ndigbo Unity Forum (NUF) has called on President Bola Tinubu to address Nigeria’s pressing food security challenges by increasing the availability of tractors and agricultural inputs for farmers. This move, the group argues, would help Nigeria tap into its vast arable land, fostering economic growth and creating millions of jobs.
Chief Augustine Chukwudum, President of NUF, emphasized that fully mechanizing Nigeria’s agriculture could unlock over 25 million direct and indirect jobs, fueling a larger export economy. Speaking to reporters in Enugu, Chukwudum highlighted the need for “massive tractor provision and farming tools,” urging the federal government to prioritize food security through coordinated, high-level initiatives from the President’s office.
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According to Chukwudum, ensuring farmers have adequate access to tractors and inputs would boost crop yield and more reliable harvests. It will also create over 25 million job opportunities that could unlock great support particularly for Nigerian youths and also reduce import dependence, bolster exports, and stabilize food prices.
The forum believes that appointing skilled experts could help steer Nigeria toward sustainable development, particularly in sectors crucial for national growth.
Beyond food security, NUF criticized the ongoing disagreements over crude oil supply between the Dangote Group and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). The forum urged Tinubu to halt the export of raw crude oil until Dangote Refinery’s domestic needs are fully met. “Supporting Dangote Refinery would encourage more investors, create jobs, and stabilize Nigeria’s economy,” Chukwudum stated.
