Food Security: Group Calls For Increased Agro Rangers Deployed To The North

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) have praised the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu for deploying 10,000 agro rangers to protect farmlands in 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja.

The group, while calling for an increase to protect farmlands and increase agricultural production, stated that this significant move reflects a strong commitment to addressing the growing insecurity that has plagued the agricultural sector, particularly in the northern region, which has been severely impacted by terrorist activities, banditry, and farmer-herder conflicts.

The statement, signed by Isaac Abrak, Chairman of Northern Christian Youth Professionals, read: “We recognise and appreciate this commendable effort as a step in the right direction towards reducing the insecurity that has disrupted food production and threatened the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.”

“The deployment of Agro Rangers demonstrates President Tinubu’s determination to keep his campaign promise of revitalising the Forest Guards and protecting our farmlands.

“However, while this deployment is a positive development, the NCYP would like to draw the government’s attention to the fact that the current number of 10,000 Agro Rangers is insufficient to effectively cover and mitigate the widespread insecurity affecting the country’s food-producing belt.

“The vast expanse of the northern region necessitates a more significant and sustained effort to ensure our farmers’ safety and the security of their lands.”

The statement continued, “In light of this, the NCYP urgently calls on the Federal Government to increase the number of Agro Rangers as soon as possible.” A more robust and comprehensive deployment is required to effectively address regional security challenges and ensure the safety of those who feed the nation.

“Furthermore, we urge the personnel to remain neutral in carrying out their mandate to resolve farmer-herder conflicts. They must collaborate closely with local communities, particularly during patrols, because the locals’ extensive knowledge of the terrain will assist the Rangers in achieving their objectives.

“We also urge traditional leaders and farmers to provide the Rangers with the necessary support and cooperation, which will make their work easier and more effective.”

According to Abrak, the NCYP has consistently advocated for the protection of our forests and farmlands and will continue to support initiatives aimed at protecting our people’s lives and livelihoods. We urge the government to continue in this direction and take additional steps to improve food security and restore peace in the north.

The group commends President Tinubu for his proactive leadership and looks forward to continuing to work together to secure the nation and ensure the prosperity of all Nigerians.