Dear President Tinubu Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu
First and foremost, allow me to congratulate you on your election as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As a dedicated supporter, I am proud to have been a part of the process that led to your victory at the polls. Since assuming office, you have shown commendable dedication to repositioning the country's economy and fostering national unity, and I applaud your efforts in this regard.
The purpose of this letter is to address the potential impact of the removal of fuel subsidy on agriculture and food production in Nigeria. As a concerned citizen, I would like to propose a solution that I believe could mitigate the adverse effects of subsidy removal on staple food items. In your inauguration address and subsequent media chats, you expressed your willingness to welcome brilliant ideas from the youth. It is in this spirit that I propose the establishment of 37 Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Parks across the country.
The Impact of Fuel Subsidy Removal on Agriculture and Food Production:
The removal of fuel subsidy has had a significant impact on the cost of transportation and logistics, which, in turn, has affected food production. The increased cost of fertilizer, pesticides, and other inputs has made it unaffordable for small-scale farmers to procure these essentials. As a result, both the quantity and quality of harvests are being negatively affected, leading to higher food prices due to increased transportation costs.
Access to Markets:
The removal of subsidy has also hindered the transportation of crops from farms to markets. With the rise in transportation fares, the cost of food items has skyrocketed, putting a strain on low-income earners who are the most vulnerable to these price increases.
Food Insecurity:
Food insecurity has worsened as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy. The rising prices of food items, coupled with low crop yields due to the inability of farmers to acquire essential inputs, have created a situation where many Nigerians are unable to afford an adequate supply of food.
The Benefits of an Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Park:
The establishment of Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Parks would provide smallholder farmers with access to inputs, markets, and extension services. Through these parks, farmers would be able to adopt better production methods and achieve higher yields. Furthermore, these industrial parks would create jobs, improve food security, and ultimately position Nigeria as a food-exporting nation.
Job Creation:
The establishment of Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Parks would create thousands of job opportunities for unemployed youths. These parks would require a diverse range of skills, from agricultural specialists to logistics managers and marketing professionals. This would not only address the issue of youth unemployment but also contribute to the overall economic growth and development of the country.
Boost to Agriculture:
The Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Parks would provide a platform for smallholder farmers to increase their production, process their crops, and package them for local and international markets. By adding value to their produce, farmers can command better prices, leading to increased income and improved livelihoods.
Foreign Exchange Earnings:
The Industrial Parks would contribute significantly to Nigeria's foreign exchange earnings through the exportation of processed agricultural products. This would reduce our dependence on oil exports and diversify our sources of revenue, making the Nigerian economy more resilient and sustainable.
Explanation of Proposed Loan for 20 Willing Youths:
As part of my proposed solution to the impact of fuel subsidy removal on agriculture and food production, I recommend granting group of well profiled and willing youths across the 36 states of the federation and Abuja, 20 youths per group a loan of 1.5 billion naira each, totaling 55.5 billion naira. This loan would be provided at a single interest rate between 5- 9 percent, with a 2-year moratorium and a 10-year repayment plan. The funds from the loan would be used by the youths to establish an Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Park in different locations across the federation. The government is also expected to fast track the documentation and proper registration of their business where necessary. The products produced in these parks would be sold at government-controlled prices throughout the country, which would ensure affordability and accessibility for all citizens. Crops like Cassava, Maize, wheat, Beans, Soya beans, rice, Yam, Coconut, and other staple food items. Live stocks like Chicken, Sheep, Goats, Ram, cattle and all other edible animals.
Steps Needed to Establish the Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Park:
To successfully establish the Integrated Agro Allied Industrial Parks, the following steps would need to be taken:
Land Acquisition: The Federal Government should identify suitable land in strategic locations across the country for the establishment of the parks. Factors such as proximity to farming communities, transportation infrastructure, and access to markets should be considered.
Design and Construction of Critical Infrastructure:
A comprehensive plan for the design and construction of essential infrastructure within the parks should be developed. This includes roads, irrigation systems, storage facilities, processing units, packaging units, and administrative buildings.
Procurement of Processing and Milling Machines:
Modern and efficient processing and milling machines should be acquired to facilitate value addition and improve the quality of agricultural products. This would enhance productivity and ensure the production of high-value goods for local and international markets.
Recruitment of Personnel:
Skilled professionals, including agricultural experts, engineers, technicians, and administrative staff should be hired to manage and operate the Agro Allied Industrial Parks effectively. Training programs should also be established to enhance the skills of the local workforce.
Input Supplier Linkages and Financing:
The government should establish strong linkages with input suppliers to ensure the availability of quality fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, and other necessary agricultural inputs at affordable prices. Additionally, the government should explore financing options to support smallholder farmers in accessing these inputs.
Channel Creation for Market Access:
We should develop effective channels for market access, both locally and internationally. This can be achieved through partnerships with existing market players, establishment of distribution networks, and participation in trade exhibitions and fairs. We should also collaborate with relevant government agencies to facilitate export procedures and access to international markets.
In conclusion sir, the establishment of the proposed Agro Allied Industrial Parks would revolutionize agriculture in Nigeria. It would create job opportunities for unemployed youths, boost food production, enhance food security, and contribute to economic growth.
I humbly urge you, President Tinubu, to consider this proposal as a priority and take the necessary steps to invest in the agriculture sector. By doing so, Nigeria can achieve sustained economic growth and development while improving the livelihoods of its citizens, especially the youth.
Thank you for your anticipated response.
Yours faithfully,
Musbau Semiu Ademola,
CEO/MD MSA ROYAL AGRO BUSINESS LIMITED
08036199307, 08077646060, 08097070323
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