During a critical debate on the 2025 Appropriation Bill presented by His Excellency Ahmed Bola Tinubu (GCFR) on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Rt. Hon. Kwamoti B. Laori passionately made the case for a substantial increase in budgetary allocations for agriculture and food security.
Highlighting the pressing need for this shift, Laori pointed out that the current provisions for agriculture and food security are alarmingly inadequate, especially when juxtaposed with the significant funding allocated to National Defense and Security. He emphasized that while national security is paramount, it should not overshadow the equally vital need for food production and agricultural development, which are foundational for societal stability and growth.
Laori underscored that investing in agriculture is not just about enhancing food supply; it is a strategic move to combat unemployment, as the agricultural sector has the potential to create millions of jobs, particularly for the youth. With Nigeria facing a persistent unemployment crisis, prioritizing agricultural investment could provide sustainable livelihoods and stimulate economic growth across various sectors.
Furthermore, he advocated for a holistic approach that ensures balanced development across all sectors. "We must allocate resources in a manner that uplifts agriculture and food security without sacrificing funding for other crucial areas," he stated. By ensuring that agriculture receives the attention and funding it deserves, we can enhance food production capacity, improve food security, and ultimately foster a healthier, more resilient economy for all Nigerians.
In conclusion, Rt. Hon. Kwamoti B. Laori's impassioned plea calls for a comprehensive reevaluation of budget priorities, urging his colleagues to recognize agriculture and food security as essential pillars of national development that warrant significant investment for the country's future prosperity.