President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday charged traditional rulers in Nigeria on the need to encourage their subjects to cultivate lands in order to boost agriculture in the country.
He said this during the breaking of Ramadan fast with traditional rulers at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to him, all efforts must be made to ensure that Nigeria feeds itself in the next few years.
He said: “We must in few years time, at most, be able to feed ourselves. You should therefore encourage your followers to get ready and grow enough food to feed ourselves.
“Tell our people who have lands to cultivate them even if it is to feed their family only.”
Stressing that he assumed office at a difficult time in the history of Nigeria with security and economic challenges, the President said his administration is making progress in the area or security.
He pointed out that the economic challenge was caused by the neglect of the agriculture sector for oil.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar III, urged all Nigerians to protect the integrity of all, saying God was not wrong when he put everybody together in the country.
He said those beating the drum of division would fail.
The Sultan was optimistic that the nation would overcome its current challenges with commitment from all.
He also prayed for God’s guidance and good health for the President as he leads the country.
The Sultan said it was the duty of Nigerians to continue to pray for all leaders and the country for the desired peace.
He said: “The traditional rulers’ council will continue to support the President in his drive to leave a legacy that future generation would be proud of.”
Those at the dinner included the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II; Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar; Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Gbom Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe; Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo; Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.
