The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has assured farmers and pastoralists in Udobo, Gamawa community in Bauchi, of the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding their land rights and enhancing food security.
Tuggar made this statement on Sunday during a community engagement on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, at the inauguration of the Irrigate Nigeria Project in Gamawa, Bauchi.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, Tuggar highlighted that between the 1960s and 1970s, Udobo was a hub for Nigeria’s agricultural output.
He said, however, the community had been largely neglected by the state government for decades.
Tuggar warned that land grabbing would not be tolerated and called for collaboration among stakeholders to drive agricultural innovation and sustainability.
He explained that the project aimed to reduce food imports, secure Nigeria’s agricultural future, and distribute rice, motorcycles, and environmentally-friendly cooking stoves to mitigate tree felling in the state.
He also acknowledged the impact of floods and climate change on agriculture and emphasised the need for urgent government support.
“This land fed nations. We aim to revive that legacy without displacing those who till it,” Tuggar said.
He reiterated President Tinubu’s strategy for Udobo and similar communities, assuring farmers that their land would be protected.
“No one will lose their land. Grow what you eat first; we will help you sell the surplus,” he added.
The minister also reassured the community that the president’s promise to cushion the impact of economic reforms would soon be fulfilled through microcredit schemes and subsidised machinery.
“Food security is national security.
“Udobo’s revival symbolised our resolve: a Nigeria where no farmer fears progress,” he stated.
Tuggar further revealed that, with support from the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), the government would optimise water access through Udobo’s fadama wetlands.
He also mentioned that climate-smart tools would be introduced to enhance agricultural output and improve the community’s livelihood.
Hajiya Aisha, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude for the minister’s support, stating that the community had long been neglected by the state in addressing the impacts of climate change and flooding.
“We are grateful to Tuggar for his support. I am sure the fertilisers he gave us will help a lot of farmers during the upcoming rainy season,” she said.
The community youth leader, Musa Udubo, also thanked the minister and urged increased support for farmers to curb urban migration.
“We are grateful to the minister for his diplomatic efforts to bring sustainable development to our community.
“He has fulfilled his promise, and we will not forget this massive support,” Udubo said.
