Nigerian farmers call for fertilizer subsidy and enhanced security measures
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Cocoa and Plantain Farmers Association of Nigeria CPFAN has urged the Federal Government to subsidize fertilizer and strengthen security in farming communities. National President of CPFAN, Ayodele Ojo, stated that rising fertilizer costs and increasing insecurity, including kidnappings and violence, are threatening agricultural productivity and food security. He emphasized that many farmers have abandoned their farms due to these issues, leading to food shortages and higher prices. Ojo called for government intervention to secure rural areas, protect farmers, and restore confidence in the agricultural sector. He also appealed for the inclusion of floral fertilizer in the national procurement program, advocating for its widespread subsidization and distribution to all Nigerian farmers, not just CPFAN members. This, he noted, would empower smallholder farmers, increase productivity, and enhance Nigeria's competitiveness in the international cocoa market. Adamolekun Ebenezer, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, affirmed the ministry's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and highlighted the importance of organic fertilizers. Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Olaye Akinola, also expressed the state's support for agricultural innovations.
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Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has officially signed the concession agreement for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, with Aero Alliance Limited under a Public-Private Partnership. This marks the formal transfer of operational and management responsibilities to the concessionaire. The signing ceremony, announced by the minister鈥檚 Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, was attended by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and representatives from various federal agencies and Aero Alliance Limited. The concession is part of the Federal Government鈥檚 efforts to modernize airport infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and attract private-sector investment, aligning with President Bola Tinubu鈥檚 Renewed Hope Agenda. Keyamo noted that previous attempts to concession the airport had failed for two decades, and he praised Governor Mbah for his role in facilitating the project. The minister assured aviation employees that their welfare would be protected under the new arrangement, despite the shift to private management focused on efficiency and accountability. Keyamo urged Aero Alliance Limited to justify the confidence placed in it, as its performance will set a benchmark for future airport concessions. The Enugu State Government has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a direct flight connection between Guangzhou, China, and Enugu, aiming to boost trade, tourism, and investment in the South-East.
Must ReadColombia's president-elect, Abelardo de la Espriella, has issued an ultimatum to the country's guerrilla groups, giving them one month to surrender. This stance was a key part of his campaign, which saw him win Sunday's presidential election by a narrow margin. De la Espriella stated that his administration would not offer "generous offers or unacceptable concessions" to armed groups, contrasting with the outgoing administration's approach of dialogue. He previously expressed intentions to conduct bombing campaigns against guerrillas and build "mega-prisons." His victory marks the end of Colombia's first leftist government, led by President Gustavo Petro. De la Espriella also plans to form a military alliance with the United States and Israel, having stated that Colombia and Israel would share an unprecedented relationship after speaking with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. The United Nations reported on Thursday that drug crops in Colombia increased by 3.5 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year.