By Victoria Onehi
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi has revealed that Agritourism would enhance the agricultural sector, encourage both local and foreign investors as well as achieve food and nutrition security.
The Minister made this known during the Celebration of 2024 Inaugural World Agritourism Day with the theme: ‘’Food Security for All”held at the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Headquarters, Abuja, recently.
In a statement,the Minister said the development of Agritourism would lead to agricultural revolution, encourage industrialisation for wealth and job creation, as well as growth in the non-oil sector.
Sen Abdullahi said that Agritourism comprises a range of activities, including farm tours, agriculture festivals, farm stays and educational programs that connect visitors with the agricultural landscape.
He said: ‘’t will benefit farmers ,who gain additional income, tourists who gain insights into agricultural activities relating to Agritourism rangeing from farm tours and workshop to seasonal festivals and tastings of farm produced ,among others’’.
The Minister stated that the project would provide producers with the opportunities to generate additional income and avenue for direct marketing to consumers adding that it will enhance the tourism industry by increasing the number of visitors to the area and length of stay.
He revealed that the federal government would establish a national committee to drive and promote Nigeria’s agritourism noting that the goal is to develop framework and standard operating guidelines for agritourism towards strengthening the agribusiness ecosystem.
The Minister lauded the World Agritourism Organisation (WAO), led by its President, Arc. Trust Ogboi for their pivotal role in developing agritourism and making the day’s celebration reality.
In his welcome remarks, the President, WAO, Arc. Trust Ogboi stated that the development of the agritourism industry will generate huge foreign exchange to the Nigerian economy and boost food production.
In his goodwill message, the World Food Programme (WEP), Country Director, David Stevenson, represented by Olabisi Ogungbemi said that the WEP remains steadfast in supporting and partnering with governmental bodies at all levels to achieve the goal of food and nutrition and security in Nigeria.
In attendance were leaders of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), and Members of the National Assembly, among others.
