Ex-Minister Criticizes Government Over Food Shortage in Nigeria

• Former Minister Adeseye Ogunlewe sharply criticizes government for prevailing food crisis, deeming excuses unjustifiable and expressing deep concern
• Ogunlewe blames former President Buhari’s administration for neglecting academic community, leading to closure of universities and deprivation of researchers

Former Minister of Works and Housing, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, has sharply criticized the government for the prevailing food crisis in the country, stating that there are no justifiable excuses for the situation.

In a discussion on Channels Television, Ogunlewe expressed his deep concern about Nigeria’s current state of affairs, highlighting his lack of surprise given the circumstances.

He squarely blamed the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari for neglecting the academic community, particularly universities and researchers who play a crucial role in developing modern farming techniques through research.

Ogunlewe lamented that the government had antagonized the academic sector over the past eight years, leading to the closure of universities and depriving researchers of essential grants.

Asserting the vital role of research in national development, Ogunlewe emphasized that no country can progress without investing in research, especially in the agricultural sector, which is fundamental to economic growth.

He criticized the lack of involvement of university professors in agriculture due to inadequate funding for research despite numerous universities and colleges of agriculture across the country with vast land resources.

Ogunlewe called upon the current government to prioritize investment in agricultural institutions and research, emphasizing that Nigeria possesses abundant resources and the potential to address food shortages.

He stressed that research and innovation are indispensable in tackling food inflation, enhancing food security, and driving economic development.

In conclusion, Ogunlewe urged the government to take decisive action by investing in research and agricultural institutions, reiterating that Nigeria cannot afford to have excuses for food shortages given its rich endowment of resources.