It’s Shameful That Nigeria Struggles to Feed Its Citizens – Bauchi Governor

Bauchi State Governor criticizes Nigeria’s food insecurity, calling it disgraceful that the nation struggles to provide for its own people despite its vast agricultural potential.

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has voiced his concern about Nigeria’s ongoing food security issues, despite the country’s wealth of resources.

During a courtesy visit by the Portuguese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Paulo Martins Santos, at Government House, the governor expressed that it is “shameful” for a country with 250 million people to still face difficulties in feeding its citizens.

Governor Mohammed stressed the importance of implementing strategic agricultural reforms and boosting investment in food production to tackle the nation’s increasing food insecurity.

He observed that Nigeria’s extensive arable land and favorable climate present significant opportunities for agricultural development, but expressed regret over the absence of effective policies to fully utilize these resources.

Governor Bala emphasized that even with our involvement in crop production, the market is available. With a population of 250 million Nigerians, it is concerning that we still struggle to feed ourselves adequately. Without achieving food security, he noted, prosperity remains out of reach and growth becomes unattainable by any measure.

He emphasized that Bauchi State boasts an expansive four million hectares of arable land and assured Portuguese investors there would be a fair environment without bureaucratic hurdles, corruption, or heavy taxation.

He added, “We are prepared to welcome Portuguese investors to engage in farming, export activities, job creation, and contribute to economic development with minimal taxation and free from corruption.”

The governor highlighted the potential for a robust partnership between Bauchi and Portugal, noting their common interests and resources.

“We possess a wealth of mineral resources, including metals like lead, tantalite, gold, and limestone—essentially anything you can think of,” he remarked.

Governor Bala highlighted Portugal’s longstanding connections with Nigeria, reflecting on its early explorers and their impact. “I wasn’t surprised to hear about the Portuguese Ambassador’s visit to Bauchi,” he remarked. “In the 15th century, the Portuguese were pioneers who overcame great challenges to reach Lagos through uncharted territory. Their historical interactions with notable individuals such as King Jaja of Opobo are well known.”

He commended Portugal for its amicable relations and strong cultural and historical connections with Nigeria, expressing enthusiasm about enhancing their cooperation.

Governor Bala reiterated his administration’s dedication to enhancing economic collaboration and attracting foreign investment. He assured the ambassador that Bauchi State is open to investments in key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, healthcare, education, energy, commerce, and industry.

He further revealed the upcoming investment summit in Bauchi State and extended an invitation to the Portuguese government and investors, highlighting it as a chance to promote sustainable economic growth.

Earlier, Ambassador Santos Martins Paulo mentioned that his visit to Bauchi was prompted by a discussion with a member of the Bauchi House of Representatives, which uncovered several areas of shared interest.

“Portugal has a long-standing familiarity with Nigeria, being the first European nation to visit back in 1472, beginning with Lagos. The city’s name is Portuguese, highlighting the profound historical connections between our countries,” he stated.

Ambassador Paulo stressed the importance of transcending historical ties and proactively modernizing the partnership between both countries.

He mentioned that his embassy, together with Nigeria’s office in Lisbon, has been actively identifying opportunities for collaboration. Some of these efforts have already produced positive outcomes, and there is additional potential in Bauchi State.

He also emphasized Portugal’s increasing engagement in Nigeria, noting that the largest Portuguese-owned company is presently building a railway line connecting Kano and Maradi in Niger Republic.