Niger State Governor Umar Bago has declared that Nigeria, with its rich agricultural resources, has no business with poverty, emphasizing that the nation's natural endowments are sufficient to lift citizens out of economic hardship.
Speaking at the Taraba International Investment Summit held on Wednesday at the Taraba State Banquet Hall in Jalingo, Governor Bago highlighted Nigeria's untapped agricultural potential, particularly noting the country's ability to farm throughout the year.
"All the factors of production are inherent here in Taraba State, and it was enumerated in Aliko Dangote's speech. We have land, water, sun, and people," Bago stated.
The governor, who described himself as the "Chief Farmer of Nigeria," compared Nigeria's agricultural advantages to those of European nations, noting: "People in Europe can barely farm for three months in a year, but we can farm 24/7, 365 days a year. It means we have no business in poverty."
Governor Bago urged the Federal Government and private sector stakeholders to harness the country's agricultural potential as a means to eradicate poverty. He specifically recommended that state governments partner with major construction firms to deploy equipment for land cultivation, enabling mass agricultural production.
Emphasizing the role of government as an enabler, Bago advocated for creating an environment where businesses can thrive while investing in assets and capital procurement. He also reaffirmed the commitment of sub-national governments to support development initiatives in Taraba State and across the federation.
The summit, which took place at the TY Danjuma House, brought together government officials, investors, and agricultural stakeholders to discuss investment opportunities in Taraba State.
