By: Simeon Shodimu
NAF Partners Agriculture, Livestock Ministries To Boost Food Security
As concerns over food security continue to shape national discourse, the Nigerian Air Force has moved beyond its traditional security mandate by forging strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening agricultural production and livestock development across the country.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in a move designed to support Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda and enhance national food security.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Air Force described the initiative as part of its expanding non-kinetic operations, noting that food security has become increasingly tied to national stability and sustainable development.
According to the statement, the engagements also align with the objectives of NAF Farms Limited, the Air Force’s flagship agricultural initiative established to contribute to food production, economic empowerment and community development.
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, led the delegation during the visits. Also on the delegation were the Managing Director of NAF Farms Limited, Air Vice Marshal Abdulrasheed Kotun, alongside other senior officers from the Civil-Military Relations Branch.
During the visit to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Air Force commended the Minister, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, for the ministry’s strides in implementing the National Ranching Policy, promoting livestock partnerships and advancing the establishment of National Livestock Centres.
The Air Force noted that collaboration with the ministry would facilitate the expansion of modern livestock farms under NAF Farms Limited through improved access to quality animal breeds, veterinary support services, advanced animal husbandry techniques and agricultural technology.
In his response, the minister described the initiative as strategic and forward-looking, while praising the Nigerian Air Force for its sustained contributions to national security and stability.
Similarly, at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the delegation applauded the minister, Senator Abubakar Kyari, for interventions targeted at stabilising food prices, encouraging dry-season farming and strengthening national food reserves.
The Air Force also sought support for integrating NAF Farms Limited into key federal agricultural programmes, particularly in the areas of mechanised farming, improved seedlings and fertiliser distribution.
Senator Kyari assured the delegation of the ministry’s readiness to support the initiative, while both ministries expressed commitment to technical cooperation and policy integration.
The planned collaboration is expected to position NAF Farms Limited as a strategic platform for boosting food production, supporting livelihoods and complementing ongoing counter-insurgency efforts through sustainable national development initiatives.
