The wife of Nigeria’s President, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, inaugurated the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Young Farmers Club in Oyo State.
The program, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, aims to empower young people with tools and knowledge in farming.
Speaking in Ibadan, Mrs. Tinubu, represented by the wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, stated that farming is essential to ensure food security across the nation.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and it is imperative that we empower our young people with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this sector,” Mrs. Makinde said.
Mrs. Makinde, RHI Coordinator in the state, said the Young Farmers Club will foster passion for farming and agribusiness among youths, promoting food security and vibrant agricultural practices in Nigeria.
“We want to create a new generation of farmers who are passionate about agriculture and are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this sector,” she added.
The club is open to all public primary and junior secondary school students in Nigeria. Members will learn modern farming techniques, share knowledge, and develop skills to succeed in farming.
Mrs. Makinde emphasized that farming is for everyone, not just older people.
“We want to debunk the myth that farming is only for the elderly. We believe that young people can be successful farmers and contribute to the development of our nation,” she said.
The program aims to encourage young people in farming, promote agricultural education, and foster sustainable farming practices. The knowledge and skills acquired will contribute to the agricultural sector and promote food security in Nigeria.
“We are committed to supporting the development of agriculture in Nigeria, and we believe that this program will play a critical role in achieving this goal,” Mrs. Makinde said.
Mrs. Makinde thanked Mrs. Tinubu for extending the initiative to all states and commended the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for partnering with RHI to induct over 150 students into the Young Farmers Club in Oyo State.
Commissioner for Education Prof. Solihu Adelabu noted that education is incomplete without agriculture.
“Agriculture is a vital part of our education system, and we must ensure that our young people are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this sector,” he said.
He urged students to revive school farms and emphasized the need for Nigeria to prioritize food security.
“We must prioritize food security in Nigeria, and we believe that this program will play a critical role in achieving this goal,” Prof. Adelabu added.
