In a significant move to transform its agricultural landscape and stimulate economic growth, the Nigerian federal government has unveiled a comprehensive five-year national strategic plan aimed at boosting potato production across the nation. The plan, known as the National Potato Strategy, is set to be implemented from 2023 to 2028, with the goal of revolutionizing the Nigerian potato industry and making it a major player in the country’s agricultural value chain.
The official launch of this strategic plan took place in Jos, Plateau State, where key government officials, stakeholders from various sectors, and agricultural experts gathered to witness this milestone. Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, conveyed the government’s commitment to leveraging potato production as a catalyst for economic growth. Speaking at the event, he emphasized the multifaceted benefits that the plan would bring to Nigeria.
Minister Kyari noted that the strategic plan aims not only to increase potato production but also to create employment opportunities and improve livelihoods for the nation’s youth and women. This move aligns with the government’s broader efforts to harness the potential of agriculture as a means of tackling unemployment and fostering inclusive development.
Highlighting the commercial potential of potato cultivation in 12 states across Nigeria, Minister Kyari envisioned a future where the country’s potato sector becomes a commercially viable sub-sector within the broader agricultural value chains. He emphasized the importance of sustainable food and nutrition security while also positioning Nigerian potatoes as a significant export product. This vision aligns with the government’s ambition to diversify its economy and boost its presence in the global agricultural market.
The Minister underscored the government’s commitment to addressing challenges within the agricultural sector. Measures are being put in place to facilitate massive production, processing, value addition, and product development, which will serve as the foundation for driving Nigeria’s industrial growth. He further noted that this initiative aligns with President’s recent directive to intensify crop production, positioning potato production as a priority area.
Caleb Mutfwang, the Governor of Plateau State, expressed his gratitude to the federal government for its commitment to enhancing food production. Plateau State, known for its robust potato production, is expected to play a significant role in the successful implementation of the national potato strategic plan. The governor pledged full support from his administration to ensure the plan’s success, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to pool resources and achieve common goals.
The official launch of the five-year national potato strategic plan garnered considerable attention from stakeholders in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, including the National Potato Multi-Stakeholders Forum, GIZ, National Agricultural Seed Council, and National Root Crop Research Institute officials. Their presence underscores the collective effort required to drive this transformative agenda forward.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s ambitious five-year national strategic plan for potato production holds the promise of economic growth, job creation, and improved food security. With a clear vision and the commitment of key stakeholders, the Nigerian potato industry has the potential to become globally competitive, capitalizing on the nation’s inherent strengths in production. This initiative marks a crucial step towards achieving sustainable agricultural development and economic prosperity for Nigeria.
