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The Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat of the FCT Administration says it will strengthen synergy with agricultural research institutes across the country to revitalise agricultural sector in the territory.
Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Mr Lawan Geidam, said the goal of strengthening the synergy with research institutes was to boost food production and enhance food security.
Geidam who disclosed this during a visit to the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture on Friday, stressed the critical role research institutes play in achieving sustainable agricultural development.
He acknowledged the valuable expertise and resources that research institutes offer, particularly in sharing knowledge of agricultural innovations and technological practices amongst farmers in rural communities.
“The FCTA recognises that a robust agricultural sector is vital for food security, economic growth, and job creation particularly in the FCT, currently grappling with a rapidly increasing population.
“This is why FCT Administration will be strengthening synergy with your institute as well as other relevant organisations to leverage your knowledge and experience.
“This will enable us to address challenges and implement effective strategies for agricultural transformation,” he said.
The secretary who is on familiarisation tour to facilities and agricultural institutions in the FCT, said the essence was to gain first-hand insights into the existing agricultural landscape, identify areas for improvement and assess the potential for collaboration with other organisations.
Geidam also visited the FCT Livestock Markets in Kugbo and Deidei; Nyanya Veterinary Clinic; Karu Abattoir and Kado Fish Market among others.
At the Karu abattoir, the Secretary told the butchers and veterinary doctors that the FCT Minister had given him a matching order to implement programmes that would revitalise the sector.
He assured the butchers that a holistic approach would be articulated and presented to the FCTA for implementation.
“Our plan, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration, is to reinvigorate the agricultural sector to contribute to food security.
“This will be done by increasing local production and reducing dependence on imported agricultural products.
“We are also looking forward to an agriculture sector that can create employment, improve income generation for farmers, and stimulate economic growth in rural areas,” he said.
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