ibironkeeniola 
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Sabo Nanono has called on farmers in the country to support the economic diversification agenda of the Buhari-led administration through increased agricultural production, processing and value addition.
Nanono made the call on Friday at a sensitisation workshop by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Kano state for stakeholders in sesame and ginger value chains.
The training was targeted at improving the production of sesame and ginger and also raise awareness on the use and health benefits of the products.
The minister who was represented by the Northwest Regional Director of the agric ministry, Dr Abdulkareem Durisinlorun, emphasised the importance of food, drawing a parallel between self-sufficiency in food production and the protection of the nation’s sovereignty.
“Growing our food, processing what we produce, becoming competitive in export markets and creating jobs all across our economy, are crucial for our national security,” he added.
According to the minister, the workshop was organised to assess the present status of the ginger and sesame sub-sector, uncover the challenges facing the industry and determine the way forward.
“The ministry has put in place various measures to increase production, processing and value addition through supports for research in the National Agricultural Research System; making available various classes of seeds; sensitization and capacity building for stakeholders; establishment of cottage processing centres across the country among other,” Nanono said.
He further commended the Buhari-led administration for prioritising agriculture in its economic diversification agenda.
On her part, the Director, Federal Department of Agriculture, Mrs Karima Babaginda described the programmes as well-timed and a crucial step for efficient production and distribution of the said commodities.
The sensitization workshop which took place at Tahir Guest Palace Hotel was attended by various dignitaries including; Mr. Muhammed Shehu Adamu, Technical Assistant to Director FDA-FMARD, Mr. Abba Gana Yamani, State Director FMARD Kano State, Prof. Sanusi Gaya, Dr. Mustapha Jibril, Dr. Saifullahi UMAR, FMARD Staff, major stakeholders in ginger and sesame value-chain and farmers.
SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA