Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for greater support and encouragement for agro-investors in Nigeria, emphasizing that such efforts are essential to strengthening the country’s food security.
He made this call on Saturday during the inauguration of the Soybean Plant and Refinery established by Called Servant to Service (CSS) Global Integrated Farms, situated along the Keffi-Abuja road in Gora, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
During the ceremony, Mr. Jonathan commended the founder of CSS Farms, Professor Kennedy Opara, and other agricultural investors in the country, acknowledging the significant risks involved in farming as a business.
He stressed that the sector required robust backing to ensure its growth and sustainability.
Mr. Jonathan recalled the efforts of his administration in the aftermath of the devastating 2012 floods in Nigeria, during which both local and international support were mobilized to aid farmers and flood victims.
He highlighted how his government, under the leadership of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina as Minister of Agriculture, managed to ensure food security despite the challenges posed by the floods, averting a major food shortage that year.
He also mentioned that Nigeria received recognition in Rome for its efforts in reducing hunger, underscoring the positive impact of their work.
In his address, Mr. Jonathan further stressed the importance of collective investment in the development of Nigeria, urging citizens not to seek opportunities abroad, but instead to focus on contributing to the progress of the nation.
“We cannot wait for others to come and build Nigeria. We must build this country ourselves,” he said.
He expressed hope that such efforts would provide opportunities for the youth to secure jobs and lead meaningful lives.
A former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma, who attended the event, praised the inauguration of the refinery as a positive step for both Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
Mr. Koroma highlighted Africa’s potential to feed itself and the world, particularly pointing out that the continent is home to 60 percent of the world’s arable land.
He noted that initiatives like CSS Farms would not only generate much-needed employment for Africa’s youthful population but would also play a crucial role in enhancing food security across the continent.
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, represented by his Deputy Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, also congratulated Professor Opara on the successful opening of the refinery.
He encouraged other potential investors to consider Nasarawa State for future investments, emphasizing the state’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for business growth and development.
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, who also attended the event, urged Nigerians to embrace mechanized agriculture, such as the model exemplified by CSS Farms, and to view agro-business as a viable alternative to seeking employment opportunities abroad.
Governor Diri highlighted the country’s vast resources as a strong foundation for job creation and national development.
Other distinguished guests at the event included Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, former Governor of Cross River State Ben Ayade, Primate of the Anglican Church Henry Ndukuba, and Bishop Effa Emmanuel.
The inauguration ceremony also featured a special cake-cutting event to celebrate both Professor Opara’s birthday and the anniversary of the farm.