Obi Proffers Solutions To Food Insecurity, Youth Unemployment In Africa

• POMR Makes Some Changes As Dr Tanko Leads Obidient Movement

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate for the 2023 general election, has stated that adequate investment in agriculture is a sure way to combat food insecurity in Africa.

Speaking as a panellist at an international conference on food security in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, on Friday, Obi stated that the African hunger crisis can only be effectively addressed by focussing on agriculture.

“Reducing reliance on food imports will help ease the strain on our currency, keep exchange rates stable, and rein in inflationary pressures driven by high food costs.

Obi wrote on his X handle from Rwanda on Friday: “Today, I was one of the panellists at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2024, which was held in Kigali, Rwanda.
“During the session, I reiterated my long-held view that food insecurity in Africa is inextricably linked to human insecurity.

“Using Nigeria as an example, I emphasised that addressing food insecurity is a critical step towards overall security in the country. By investing in agriculture and food-related productivity, Nigeria will not only address the hunger crisis but will also create numerous job opportunities for the country’s burgeoning unemployed population, particularly young people in their productive years.

“To demonstrate the untapped potential in our food production, Bangladesh produces 35-40 million tonnes of rice per year on an area of approximately 148,000 square kilometres, which is less than one-sixth of Nigeria’s 923,768 square kilometres.” In contrast, Nigeria produces only 3-4 million tonnes of rice, which is about 10% of Bangladesh’s rice production.

“This disparity, which is similar to the African situation, emphasises the agricultural sector’s untapped potential and the need for investment.

“Food insecurity, if addressed properly in Africa, can serve as a catalyst for improving human security and promoting overall development. With significant investments in agriculture and food systems, we can simultaneously create jobs, reduce poverty, and combat hunger. By focussing on sustainable agricultural practices and value-chain improvements, we can not only ensure food security, but also empower communities and promote economic growth, resulting in a more prosperous and secure Africa. We must prioritise food security in order to realise the continent’s potential and address pressing issues of human insecurity.”
Meanwhile, the Peter Obi Media Reach, or POMR, has informed the public, particularly media operatives, of some minor changes in media reach personnel.
Dr Yunusa Tanko, POMR’s spokesman who also served as the chief spokesperson for the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign, is leaving his position to take on a new challenge.

In a statement signed by Ibrahim Umar, new POMR Spokesman, Dr Tanko has been named interim National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement. He will be responsible for coordinating the Obedient Movement’s activities on a national and international scale.
Remember that the Obedient Movement, a quasi-political movement founded in 2023 during the electioneering season, reflects the philosophy and dreams of our Principal, Peter Obi, whose members come from all political parties and non-politicians, as well as from within the country and in Diasporas, who want a new Nigeria that is possible.
Dr Tanko will be replaced in POMR by Mallam Ibrahim Umar, another versatile Obidient who is as eager as Dr Tanko for a new Nigeria.
As a result, we urge members of the public to support these Nigerians in their new endeavour as we continue our efforts to dismantle the gang of political criminals holding our beloved country hostage. New Nigeria is Possible.