The Olofin of Orubu in Atakumosa East Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Dr. Francis Olabanji Lucas, has urged the government to engage traditional rulers and other stakeholders in combating food insecurity and insecurity in rural areas.
Oba Lucas noted that government partnership with traditional rulers and other stakeholders will assist provide a safe and enabling environments for farming.
The monarch disclosed this at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Osogbo, during the launching of a book authored by the Osun NUJ council Chairman, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu.
He identified insecurity as a major factor contributing to the decline in agricultural activities across the country.
According to him, many farmers are afraid to go to their farmlands due to persistent threats from criminals.
He called on the Nigerian government to introduce agriculture as a compulsory General Studies (GNS) course in higher institutions across the country.
He noted that reintroducing farming as a cultural and educational norm would not only restore Nigeria’s agricultural glory but also prepare the younger generation for active participation in food production.
“In the university, we study General Studies. Agriculture should be a part of it — it’s our culture,” he said.
“Farming is a noble occupation. We must learn from our forefathers. Nigeria was built on cocoa revenue. We must return to the farms.”
However, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu, the Chairman of the NUJ Osun State Council, during the launch of his autobiography titled “Echoes of My Journey,” urged journalists to remain professional and ethical in the discharge of their duties.
He advised media practitioners to avoid partisanship and to offer balanced coverage to all political parties.
Ajadosu expressed hope that the book would serve as a guide for future leaders in the NUJ and a reflection of his journey through journalism and union leadership.
“This is my second book, and I hope to write more,” Ajadosu said.
