3 months ago
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Nigerian youths have once again been urged to take the lead in combating food insecurity by directing their energy towards exploring the potential of agriculture to boost food production in the country.
They were also encouraged to adopt healthy habits that promote a sustainable environment and help mitigate the effects of climate change, which negatively impact agricultural production.
These points were highlighted by speakers at a programme organised by the Youth Development Centre of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, on Monday to celebrate the annual International Youth Day, observed worldwide on August 12.
At the event, Nigerian youths were advised to shun anti-social vices such as internet scams, and drug and substance abuse, and to focus on using their energy productively to enhance food production.
The programme, themed “Agbeloba: Exploring Cultural Ways to Transform Food Systems in Nigeria,” aimed to inspire youth to overcome challenges and flourish.
Dr Mrs Bisi Kolapo, Chairperson of the Youth Development Centre, urged the youth to rise above the challenges presented by the country and strive for greatness.
Kolapo said, “You can always draw inspiration from the life of former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who was born in the village of Ibogun over 85 years ago. Despite his early struggles, he is now a renowned farmer, world leader, entrepreneur, and father to many across the globe. You too must aim for progress and greater heights, as the theme of this year’s International Youth Day implies.”
She added, “You must join the efforts to tackle the prevailing hunger by embracing agriculture. It is time for our youth to channel their productive energy to overcome the food crisis in the country.”
Welcoming the participants, Youth Programme Officer Miss Omolara Kehinde encouraged the youth to use digital platforms to enhance food production.
She noted that this aligns with the International Youth Day 2024 theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”
Kehinde urged the youth to stop viewing agricultural practices as unclean and to embrace even small-scale farming to support the contributions of larger farmers.
She said, “In Nigeria, transforming our food systems is essential for enhancing food security. Central to this transformation is the concept of ‘farming what one can eat.’
By aligning agricultural practices with local consumption needs, we can harness our rich agricultural potential more effectively. This approach reduces reliance on imported food, supports local economies, and promotes healthier diets.”
She added, “Let us support digital inclusion and agricultural innovation to empower youth as leaders in creating sustainable food systems. Together, we can turn digital clicks into meaningful progress and build a future where every Nigerian enjoys food security and nutrition.”
One of the guest speakers, Mrs Temilade Kilaso, urged the youth to adopt a proactive attitude towards preserving the environment and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Kilaso, who spoke on “Embracing Modifiable Behaviour to Achieve a Sustainable Earth,” encouraged the youth to practise proper waste management and lead the campaign against refuse dumping in waterways, which are obstacles to achieving a sustainable environment.
The climate change educator said, “Our health depends on the health of our environment. Imagine a flooded environment due to blocked drainage and waterways or a dirty environment from indiscriminate refuse disposal. If we act negatively towards our environment, it will respond in kind.”
Adekemi Adeoye, in her lecture, also urged the youth to embrace global green skills, ranging from sustainable farming to renewable energy use, to achieve food security and combat climate change.
Adeoye said, “By investing in green skills, fostering intrapreneurship, and supporting entrepreneurship, we can create a resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria that ensures food security for all. The actions we take today will determine the future of our economy, the well-being of our citizens, and the health of our environment.”
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