Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to bolstering local economic development and enhancing agricultural resilience, especially in the face of natural disasters.

During his visit to Kebbi State, Edun highlighted the Bola Tinubu administration’s efforts to strengthen economic partnerships and address challenges posed by floods.

In a statement released by Mohammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Finance, Edun’s visit was aimed at addressing the significant impact of flooding on agricultural productivity in the region. The minister emphasized President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to supporting local economies and tackling issues caused by natural disasters.

Edun outlined the proactive measures taken by the Federal Government, particularly those facilitated through the National Economic Council (NEC), with the support of Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris. Among these measures is the allocation of N3 billion to each of the 36 states to combat, mitigate, and prepare for the effects of flooding during the rainy season. The funds are particularly aimed at supporting local farmers and protecting the agricultural sector from flood-related damages.

Accompanied by Governor Idris and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, Edun toured the WACOT Rice Limited facility in Argungu. The state-of-the-art rice processing plant, with an annual milling capacity of 120,000 metric tonnes, plays a crucial role in supporting thousands of local farmers through its extensive procurement network and 8,000-strong out-grower farming programmes. The facility is essential for boosting local rice production and driving economic growth in the region.

During his visit, Edun also inspected a rice farm affected by flooding, which threatens agricultural productivity in Kebbi State. He praised the resilience of the local community and underscored President Tinubu’s dedication to improving security and enhancing productive capacity across the Northwest.

The Tinubu administration’s commitment to local economic development and agricultural resilience is seen as a strategic move to safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and promote sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.