By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi
The Federal Government has approved N3 billion to support Kebbi and other states affected by flooding, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister of Finance Wale Edun announced in Birnin Kebbi.
Edun, who inspected flood-affected rice farms in Argungu, stated that the National Economic Council (NEC) has been proactive in supporting states and FCT with N3 billion to mitigate flood effects and enhance food production.
The Federal Executive Council has approved the funds to support farmers who lost crops to the flood, Edun said. He expressed satisfaction with the Wacot Rice Mills’ operations, noting that it has created thousands of jobs and has the potential to feed the entire nation with proper funding.
President Tinubu is willing to help expand the rice mills and other mini rice mills in Kebbi to boost food production, reduce food inflation, and create more jobs, Edun added.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris appealed to President Tinubu to support flood-affected rice farmers, stating that Kebbi can feed the nation with proper support. The state government has provided free fertilizers, seedlings, and pumping machines to farmers and plans to engage in massive dry season farming.
Minister of Budget and Economy Planning Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu commended President Tinubu’s leadership in reforming the economy and noted that road projects from Sokoto to Badagary in Lagos will aid farmers in irrigation and food security.
