The First Lady welcomed the first batch of young farmers on 17th September 2024.
In a move set to strengthen food production and agricultural interest, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has officially inaugurated Nigeria’s Young Farmers’ Club as part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
Speaking at the launch event, the First Lady reiterated the importance of ‘catching them young’. By implementing programmes aimed at youths, she hopes to inspire a new generation of farmers and agricultural workers.
“The aim of the Young Farmers’ Club Nigeria is to ‘catch them young’ by making farming more appealing to our pupils and students. We are not just teaching them how to farm, we are also nurturing a generation that will transform our cultural landscape, invite modern farming techniques, and ensure that Nigeria remains self sufficient in food production.”
240 members from 12 schools were inaugurated into the club at the event. The new members, resplendent in their club uniforms, were administered the Pledge by Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister for Agriculture and Food Secirity. The First Lady then gave the new recruits their membership cards and farming tools.
Quoting Thomas Jefferson, Mrs Tinubu stated “agriculture is our wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals and happiness.” She spoke about agriculture as the backbone of the nation and focused on the importance of agriculture in diversifying the economy, as well as connecting to traditional values.
Although it is currently small, the initiative will be replicated across states. Schools interested in the project should register with their state’s First Lady.
Megan Diehl is a dedicated writer who loves to explore the world of food and agriculture, sharing insights that connect people to the roots of their sustenance. When she isn't writing, Megan can usually be found cooking for her family, creating textile art and gardening.
