Stakeholders Urge Local Seed Production for Food Security

On World Food Day, agricultural stakeholders and lawmakers convened at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja to advocate for enhanced investment in indigenous seed production and sustainable farming practices. The event was organized by the Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research in collaboration with the Loveworld Ministry of Food Technology and Sovereignty.

Segun Adebayo, Executive Director of CAfPRA and Deputy Director of CEFSAR, warned against Nigeria's reliance on foreign seed suppliers, stating that it jeopardizes long-term food security. He emphasized the need for locally produced seeds that farmers can preserve and replant.

Adebayo also encouraged households to engage in backyard gardening to complement national agricultural efforts. Pastor Tom Obiazi, Director of the Department of Agriculture at the Loveworld Ministry, advocated for organic farming methods that protect soil fertility and public health, urging a shift away from harmful agricultural chemicals.

Both speakers underscored the importance of food safety and sustainability in agricultural practices.