Empowering Nigerian youths to combat food insecurity through agricultural innovation is paramount. By harnessing the potential of agriculture, they can significantly increase food production in the nation.
Encouraging the adoption of sustainable habits that support a healthy environment will also aid in mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change on agricultural activities.
These messages resonated strongly during a recent event organized by the Youth Development Centre of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, on the occasion of International Youth Day celebrated annually on August 12.
At the gathering, Nigerian youths were advised to steer clear of negative behaviors such as cybercrime, substance abuse, and instead divert their energy toward enhancing food production.
The program, under the theme “Agbeloba: Exploring Cultural Ways to Transform Food Systems in Nigeria,” aimed to inspire the youth to overcome obstacles and thrive.
Dr. Mrs. Bisi Kolapo, Chairperson of the Youth Development Centre, encouraged the youth to rise above the adversities in the country and strive for excellence.
Kolapo emphasized, “Drawing inspiration from the remarkable journey of former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who transformed from humble beginnings in Ibogun village over 85 years ago to a prominent farmer, global leader, and entrepreneur, should motivate you to aim high, in line with this year’s International Youth Day theme.”
She added, “Join the efforts to address hunger by embracing agriculture. It’s time for the youth to channel their energies towards resolving the food crisis in our nation.”
Welcoming the participants, Youth Programme Officer Miss Omolara Kehinde encouraged leveraging digital platforms to improve food production.
She highlighted the alignment of this initiative with the 2024 International Youth Day theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”
Kehinde urged the youth to shed stereotypes about agriculture, embrace small-scale farming, and support larger farmers’ efforts.
She expressed, “Transforming our food systems in Nigeria to enhance food security is vital. A key part of this transformation is ‘farming what one can eat.’ Adapting agricultural practices to local consumption needs improves our agricultural potential utilization, reduces reliance on imports, bolsters local economies, and encourages healthier diets.”
She further stated, “Let’s advocate for digital inclusion and agricultural innovation to empower youths in establishing sustainable food systems. Together, we can leverage digital technologies for significant progress, ensuring every Nigerian enjoys food security and proper nutrition.”
Guest speaker Mrs. Temilade Kilaso urged the youth to proactively contribute to environmental preservation and combat climate change effects.
Kilaso’s discourse on “Embracing Modifiable Behavior to Achieve a Sustainable Earth” stressed the importance of proper waste management and leading the charge against indiscriminate dumping obstructing a sustainable environment.
Highlighting the interconnectedness of our well-being and the environment, Kilaso remarked, “The health of our environment significantly impacts our own health. Imagine the consequences of flooded surroundings due to blocked drainage systems or a polluted environment from improper waste disposal. Our actions towards the environment determine its response.”
In her lecture, Adekemi Adeoye also encouraged youths to embrace global green skills, including sustainable farming and renewable energy use, to achieve food security and combat climate change.
Adeoye emphasized, “Investing in green skills, promoting intrapreneurship, and supporting entrepreneurship can establish a resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria, ensuring food security for all. Today’s actions will shape our economy, citizen’s prosperity, and environmental health in the future.”