Bago urges religious bodies to embrace farming to curb hunger, unemployment

Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, has called on major religious institutions in Nigeria to venture into large-scale agriculture and livestock production as a means of addressing hunger and reducing unemployment.

The governor made the appeal on Sunday while speaking at the 44th anniversary celebration of the Liberation Mandate of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, held at the church’s Niger State headquarters in Minna.

Governor Bago also encouraged the church to intensify efforts in promoting family values among young people, noting that a solid family structure is key to building a better society.

“I rejoice with the Living Faith Church on this auspicious 44th anniversary celebration of the church. We acknowledge the good work and the sacrifices of the church in the years past.

“I am, however, appealing to Dr. Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church and other major churches to go into farming and help in the war against hunger, provide job opportunities for our teeming youths, and by extension drastically reduce the insecurity occurring in the country,” Bago stated.

He stressed the importance of religious organisations leveraging their influence and resources to embark on integrated farming projects that would boost food security nationwide.

In a show of commitment, the governor announced that his administration is willing to allocate land to the church and other interested religious bodies for agricultural initiatives.

Governor Bago also noted that the theme of the church for the year, “2025: My New Era Year,” aligns with his administration’s vision of a “New Niger State.”

He called on the church to continue praying for leaders and for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Addressing the growing erosion of moral and family values, the governor emphasized the role of the church in societal reorientation.

“The increasing decadence in society is due to the erosion of family values. The church must take the lead in correcting this and help society retrace its steps,” he said.

Earlier in his remarks, the State Pastor of Living Faith Church, Pastor John Dominion Anso, reiterated the church’s commitment to praying for those in authority and for the peace of the nation. He also commended the governor for joining in the anniversary celebration.

The event was attended by top state officials including the Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Afiniki Dauda, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and several Special Advisers.

Other dignitaries at the thanksgiving service include, the Niger State Deputy Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and resident Pastor of House on the Rock, Pastor PetRock Sadiq, traditional leaders such as the Mai Anguwa of Gbaiko, Chief Amos Nakura, and other community representatives.

The thanksgiving service marked the climax of a 4-day celebration held globally to commemorate the 44th anniversary of the church’s Liberation Mandate, which began on Wednesday.