The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has launched the Renewed Hope Agricultural Technology Adoption Programme (RHATAP), marking a significant stride towards modernizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices, aligning with the government’s broader goals of enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability.
In a significant move that supports this initiative, the ministry commissioned several key facilities at the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) in Abuja. These include a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, a research fish pond, and a modern store building. The facilities are expected to play a pivotal role in bolstering animal health, promoting aquaculture, and enhancing overall agricultural productivity.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, underscored the importance of these new facilities. He highlighted that the veterinary clinic will be instrumental in safeguarding livestock health, preventing disease outbreaks, and boosting sector productivity. The research fish pond, on the other hand, will serve as a demonstration center, showcasing best practices in fish farming and supporting aquaculture research. Kyari emphasized the necessity of continuous investment in research, infrastructure, and capacity-building to achieve food security and sustainable agricultural development. He also reiterated the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders, including ARCN, to ensure the success of these initiatives.
The commissioning of these facilities and the launch of RHATAP are anticipated to have a profound impact on Nigeria’s agricultural sector. They are expected to contribute to improved food security, increased productivity, and enhanced livelihoods for farmers and rural communities.
Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, executive secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, echoed these sentiments. He noted that the projects commissioned align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, promoting food security and strengthening coordination with international research partners.
The Council has historically played a crucial role in training youth through programmes like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). The new facilities will enable more hands-on training and research, fostering a more immersive learning experience. The fish production facility, in particular, includes concrete tanks and smoking kilns for training and demonstration purposes, further enhancing the Council’s capacity to train Nigerian youth in fish production and processing.
