Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, announced on Monday that the federal government, through the National Agriculture Development Fund (NADFund), will unveil a N1.6 billion recovery package for farmers whose livelihoods were impacted by the recent ginger disease outbreak. The minister described the ginger blight epidemic as a severe challenge that has significantly affected the country’s agricultural sector.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Ginger Blight Epidemic Control Taskforce in Abuja, Senator Kyari highlighted the extensive damage inflicted by the devastating fungal disease on ginger farms in Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), particularly in Southern Kaduna, a region synonymous with Nigerian ginger production.
Senator Kyari emphasized the unparalleled global reputation of Nigerian ginger, attributing it to its distinctive taste and pungency cherished both locally and worldwide. He noted the surging demand for the commodity in the international market, driven by its increasing popularity for its health and culinary benefits.
In response to the ginger blight crisis, the minister disclosed the establishment of a multifaceted task force comprising four committees earlier in January. He emphasized that this task force would serve as the cornerstone of the government’s response efforts, bringing together the expertise of researchers, extension agents, and dedicated farmers.
The N1.6 billion recovery package aims to support affected farmers and revitalize the ginger industry. It represents a significant step towards mitigating the economic impact of the disease outbreak and safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers across the affected regions.
The unveiling of this recovery package underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by ginger farmers and ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector in Nigeria.
