Why Moringa is More Powerful Than an AK-47 A former Minister of State for Health, Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher, has emphasized the need for Nigeria to embrace moringa farming due to its immense health benefits, economic potential, and employment opportunities. He urged federal, state, and local governments, alongside tertiary institutions, to invest in moringa farming to enhance revenue generation and national well-being. Speaking in Abuja after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among various stakeholders, including the Moringa Productions, Marketers and Farmers Welfare and Empowerment Association of Nigeria, Eden Moringa Productions, and Agreco Shift Limited, Hagher highlighted the plant’s potential in boosting the economy and creating wealth within universities and polytechnics. Health Benefits of Moringa: A Natural Remedy Hagher described moringa as a miracle plant, emphasizing its scientifically proven ability to cure multiple diseases. He argued that Nigeria’s reliance on chemical medicines should shift towards natural alternatives like moringa, which is more affordable and accessible. “Nigeria’s health policy needs a shift. We can no longer rely solely on chemical medications. Moringa farming offers a natural solution for a healthier population,” he stated. Moringa as an Alternative to Chemical Fertilizers Beyond its medicinal benefits, moringa also plays a role in sustainable agriculture. Hagher criticized the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, which degrade soil quality and create dependence on foreign manufacturers. He encouraged the federal government to support moringa-based organic fertilizers to enhance food security and soil health. “We cannot continue to allow our soil to be damaged by imported chemical fertilizers. Moringa-based fertilizers offer a sustainable and productive alternative.” Moringa and Youth Empowerment The Chairman and CEO of Moringa Productions, Dr. Ashimashiga Akoloaga, reiterated the importance of youth involvement in moringa farming. The MoU, he explained, aims to empower young people by providing education on cultivating and producing moringa products that meet international standards. Akoloaga noted that Nigerian agricultural products often face rejection in global markets due to high levels of chemical substances. By switching to organic moringa fertilizers, farmers can improve their yield and meet international agricultural standards. Investing in Moringa for Economic Growth The President of the Middle Belt Youth Development Organisation, Chris Aba, also encouraged Nigerian investors to see the potential in moringa farming. He emphasized that moringa farming has the potential to drive socio-economic development by creating jobs, improving public health, and increasing export opportunities. Conclusion: Moringa as a National Asset Moringa farming presents a golden opportunity for Nigeria. By adopting this natural powerhouse, the country can boost healthcare, agriculture, and economic prosperity while ensuring a sustainable future. Governments, institutions, and private investors should take advantage of moringa’s immense potential to drive growth and development. Explore More on Organic Farming and Its Benefits Learn More About Moringa Benefits on WHO READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The Federal Government of Nigeria is prioritizing long-term agricultural investments to address the country’s food insecurity crisis, emphasizing that short-term relief measures are insufficient for sustainable growth. At the Green Agric West Africa Expo (GAWA) 2025 held in Lagos, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, reiterated the need for commercial and modern farming techniques, including irrigation and green technology, to ensure food sufficiency. Represented by the Ministry’s Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs. Omolara Abimbola-Oguntuyi, Kyari underscored the importance of shifting from short-term palliatives to strategic, long-term solutions. FG Advocates Sustainable Agricultural Development Highlighting Nigeria’s growing population and dwindling food supply, Kyari stressed that the government is committed to implementing medium- and long-term strategies to enhance food security. He noted that commercial agriculture and modern innovations such as precision farming and climate-smart agricultural practices must be prioritized. “We must focus on commercial and sustainable agriculture, incorporating irrigation systems, green technology, and modern techniques. Our food production capacity must align with our population growth to avoid prolonged food insecurity,” Kyari stated. He further emphasized that government palliatives are temporary measures and do not provide a lasting solution to the country’s food challenges. Instead, the focus must shift to sustainable investments that tackle both agricultural and security concerns. Agriculture: A Pillar of West Africa’s Economy Describing agriculture as the backbone of West Africa’s economy, Kyari highlighted the importance of sustainable policies that promote environmentally friendly farming techniques. He noted that fostering sustainable farming practices will help protect biodiversity, conserve natural resources, and maintain a resilient agricultural sector. According to Kyari, the Federal Government remains dedicated to creating networking opportunities for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs in the agricultural industry. He emphasized that the private sector must lead the agricultural transformation, while the government will provide essential infrastructure and oversight. “We are focused on policies that ensure access to nutritious food while promoting regenerative farming techniques to sustain the ecosystem,” he added. Call for Financial Support to Farmers During his keynote speech, Prof. Lateef Sanni, Executive Director of the Nigeria Stock Product Research Institute, called on the government to facilitate access to credit facilities for farmers. He stressed that financial support is crucial for attracting youth into the agricultural sector. “The government must provide farmers with credit facilities at single-digit interest rates to ensure their growth and productivity,” Sanni stated. GAWA 2025: A Platform for Agricultural Innovation Earlier in the event, Mr. Abiodun Olaniyi, Executive Director of Agriquest Africa Network Ltd., noted that the expo was organized to advance agricultural development in West Africa. He emphasized the need to integrate climate-smart agricultural solutions and soil health restoration techniques to enhance food production. “We are looking at the future of agriculture by adopting innovative solutions, focusing on regenerative agriculture, and ensuring sustainability in farming practices,” Olaniyi remarked. The Green Agric West Africa Expo 2025 serves as a vital platform for industry stakeholders to collaborate and implement forward-thinking solutions that will shape the future of agriculture in the region. Read more on sustainable agriculture strategies from FAO READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
