By Olayinka Braimoh (Action Alliance Candidate for Governor of Kogi State)
A recent visit to a farm on the outskirts of Abuja provided valuable insights into how we can bolster agricultural productivity in Kogi State. With vast arable land spanning over 29,833 square kilometres and strategic bordering connections to 10 out of our nation’s 36 states, Kogi State possesses immense potential to attract investors and become a key contributor to our nation’s agricultural sector.
Historically, agriculture has served as the backbone of our state’s economy, witnessing the flourishing cultivation of crops such as coffee, cashew, cassava, cocoa, groundnuts, sesame seeds, oil palm, and yam within our borders. However, as we confront challenges like drought, resource competition, and the farmer-herder conflict, we must rethink our farming methods and shift paradigms.
While various factors have been attributed to the farmer-herder conflict across the nation, I firmly believe that resource competition lies at its core. Additionally, our arbitrary land use processes, our almost non-existent grazing paths, climate change, and other environmental factors have all led to the exacerbation of tensions among different groups. This is why, to address these pressing issues, we must adopt a holistic approach that emphasises sustainable agricultural practices while fostering unity and inclusivity.
Embracing regenerative agriculture in Kogi State therefore offers a promising solution. This approach seeks to enhance and sustain soil health, restore carbon content, and boost productivity. By adopting regenerative agricultural practices, we actively promote biodiversity, fortify the resilience of our agricultural systems in the face of climate change, and develop a system where families can farm for sustenance and economic prosperity. This shift towards sustainable practices will create employment opportunities, revitalising the farming industry and supporting the livelihoods of our fellow citizens.
As the Governor of Kogi State, I will prioritise the implementation of regenerative agricultural practices. This is because I strongly believe that this paradigm shift can make Kogi State the spoon that feeds the entire nation.
Make no mistake, I understand that it takes visionary leadership and a strong political will to achieve this. I also know that it will require comprehensive education and training programmes for farmers, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and skills that are necessary to transition towards sustainable farming methods. Nevertheless, I am sure that by investing in the necessary research and development, we can also unearth the innovative techniques that are tailored to our local environment.
Furthermore, by forging partnerships between the government, agricultural institutions, and local communities, we will foster collaboration and knowledge exchange. Together, we can cultivate a vibrant ecosystem that supports farmers, fosters environmental sustainability, and enhances the overall well-being of our people.
It is time to recognise that agriculture transcends mere survival and serves as a pathway to sustainable development. I am running for Governor to spearhead this paradigm shift. I am fully committed to championing this cause. I will work together with all the people of Kogi State to create a future for our state that is devoid of hunger and poverty — but is full of food and financial opportunities.
Olayinka Braimoh is the Action Alliance candidate for Kogi State Governor. His social media handle is @OlayinkaBraimoh
