The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Temitope Fadeshemi, has disclosed that 88.4 million people in Nigeria are grappling with extreme poverty.
Fadeshemi revealed this on Wednesday in Kaduna during the distribution of farm inputs to 250 smallholder farmers.
Representing Fadeshemi, Bashir Abdulkadir, Director of the Department of Extension Services, highlighted the severity of the situation under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS).
He stated that approximately 44.7 million men and 43.7 million women in Nigeria are living on less than $1.90 per day.
This dire revelation underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to address poverty in the country.
Fadeshemi emphasized the significance of the event in aligning with the government’s commitment to uplifting smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
The NPRGS, in collaboration with the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Service (FDAE), has identified and validated around 250 farmers for participation in transformative programs.
These farmers, integral to the nation’s agricultural sector, represent the core of Nigeria’s prosperity.
Fadeshemi stressed that initiatives like the training and empowerment programs are pivotal in laying the groundwork for positive change.
By equipping smallholder farmers with knowledge, resources, and support, the government aims to foster their resilience and success in the evolving agricultural landscape.