Emphasizing the significance of self-reliance in food production, former President Muhammadu Buhari commended the efforts of Nigerians who have ventured into farming to combat escalating food prices and ensure national food security. The statement was conveyed by his media aide, Garba Shehu.
Following his participation in Eid prayers with the Emir of Daura, Katsina State Dr Faruk Umar Faruk, Buhari urged citizens to persist in their pursuit of self-sufficiency by cultivating and consuming locally grown produce.
Wishing everyone a joyful Sallah celebration, Buhari encouraged the populace to prioritize buying domestically produced goods amidst price escalations. He also commended past administrations for laying the groundwork for a prosperous and stable nation while urging the youth to actively participate in nation-building, drawing inspiration from the nation’s founding figures and regional leaders.
Expressing concerns about the significant challenges posed by unrestricted population growth during large Eid gatherings, Buhari underscored the necessity for increased discussions and awareness on this issue, along with enhanced investments in education and healthcare.
During these challenging times, he advocated for mutual support among Nigerians, emphasizing the importance of unity and communal assistance, stating, “Let us be each other’s support system and exhibit the true spirit of brotherhood during this Sallah period.”
While addressing members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who paid him a visit as part of their Sallah custom, Buhari praised the NYSC as a pivotal unifying element in Nigeria and highlighted it as one of General Yakubu Gowon’s notable achievements. He urged future administrations to further fortify the scheme.
In commemoration of the occasion, Buhari presented a cow, 10 bags of rice, and cash as gifts to the NYSC members.