Following food crisis affecting the country, the Nigerian House of Representatives is currently discussing a proposed bill that aims to engage the military directly in agricultural endeavours, such as farming, ranching, and other associated activities.
Last week, a proposal known as “A Bill for an Act to Establish the Armed Forces Farms and Ranches Scheme, Enhance Food Security, Promote Economic Diversification, and for Other Related Matters” was introduced for its initial reading in the House of Representatives.
This legislation, put forward by Hon. Babajimi Benson, who serves the Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State, aims to strengthen food security and foster economic diversification within the nation.
As outlined in Part II of the bill, the initiative will be carried out under the guidance of the Minister of Defence, in partnership with pertinent government agencies, private sector collaborators, and international organisations.
Section 3 of the bill outlines the primary goals of the initiative, which entail enhancing national food security by elevating agricultural output, utilising military assets for extensive farming endeavours, and encouraging economic diversification by establishing agriculture as a practical alternative to Nigeria’s reliance on oil.
One of the important initiatives outlined in the bill is the creation of extensive agricultural projects designed to support and empower local communities.
The programme also encompasses offering agricultural education and establishing avenues for military members and civilians to engage and participate.
u4mndn