FG caused food insecurity by neglecting agric research institutes, universities – SEEDEM

The President of the Seeds Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria, SEEDEM, Yusuf Ado Kibiya, has blamed food insecurity in the country on the neglect of 32 agricultural research institutions and universities by the Federal Government.

Kibiya, who disclosed this while addressing journalists in Kano, on Tuesday, noted that overtime the 16 agricultural research Institutions and 16 agricultural universities in the country have not received the required funding from the Federal Government, thereby making them redundant.

He also noted that inconsistent agricultural policies, as well as climate change, have negatively impacted on the food production of the country.

“To address these myriad of problems, government both at states and the center, should be seen paying full dedicated services to seeds production through the reengineering and full funding of the 32 Institutions so that the nation will get it right,” he said.

In the same vein, he explained that his association would work with international agencies desirous of developing the Nigeria seeds sector for the benefits of the country’s farmers.

“They are working and supporting research institutes and universities for the development of earlier generation seeds for the benefits of the seed industries and Nigerian farmers as well,” he added.