President Muhammadu Buhari has charged Nigerians to restore the old glory of the country in farming, saying that the bedrock of Nigeria’s economy was famously known to be agriculture.
Buhari gave the charge while speaking at the annual Olojo festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State, yesterday.
The president who was represented by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, at the event said farming is the only solution to end hunger and food insecurity.
He recalled that Olojo festival showcased Yoruba culture at its best. It was in the olden days a socio-cultural event to showcase farm produce, hardwork and declaration of agricultural profits.
The President also tasked Nigerians on collective effort in ending insecurity in Nigeria, saying that security agencies should not be left alone to tackle various threats facing the nation.
He said: “Olojo festival was an event in the olden days to showcase farm produce, profits made in farming and agriculture at large.
“It will gladen my heart if Nigerians could restore the old glory of farming; this Olojo festival too should also bring back the old days of showcasing farm produce, hardwork and good character.
“The festival should not be for merriment alone. Merriment should come after work. There should not be merriment without work. Working is the antidote to poverty.
“I must also say that security is our collective effort. We should not leave security matter to security agencies alone. If we leave security agencies to handle security issue alone, there will not be adequate security.
“We are collectively responsible for provision of security. The government will do its own while the people should also support the security agencies. We should report any suspicious move or person in our environment to the security agents.
“I appreciate Ooni’s effort in ending insecurity in Nigeria. Collectively, we will end insecurity in Nigeria.”
Signed
Sola Fasure
Media Adviser to the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola
24/09/2022