Former Niger State Governor Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu emphasized the critical role of education in addressing food security challenges in Northern Nigeria.
Speaking at the 22nd Daily Trust Dialogue in Abuja, on the theme “Food Security: Availability or Affordability,” Aliyu stressed the need to integrate agricultural education into the region’s development strategies.
Aliyu called for collaboration between the Ministry of Livestock and universities of agriculture and education to deliver targeted training for farmers. He argued that equipping farmers with modern techniques and knowledge could enhance productivity and create a sustainable food supply chain.
“Education is key,” Aliyu stated. “We need education to have people who are passionate about a particular field. Use federal universities of agriculture and universities of education to educate people.”
The former governor also questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria’s border closure policies, pointing out that despite these measures, Nigerian goods continue to flood markets in neighboring ECOWAS countries.
He criticized the policy’s impact on inflation and the persistent affordability issues in the livestock and food markets.
Aliyu noted a significant disparity in livestock costs between Nigeria and Niger Republic, despite their close proximity. He argued that improving farmer education and regional trade policies could help address such inconsistencies.
Highlighting the broader challenges facing education in Northern Nigeria, Aliyu revealed that no state in the region has more than 50% of its teachers adequately qualified. He called for federal intervention to raise educational standards and support regional development.
