By Oyem Jonathan
As the world marks the 2025 World Food Day with the global theme: “Hand in hand for a better Foods and a better future” the Executive Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Hon. Pastor Jude Chukwunwike, has called for renewed commitment to food security, increased investment in agriculture, and collective action to safeguard the nation’s agricultural future.
In a goodwill statement released to commemorate the occasion, Hon. Chukwunwike emphasized that food is not just a necessity but a sacred trust handed to humanity by God to sustain life. He noted that “a nation that cannot feed itself cannot truly claim independence.”
Executive chairman Aniocha South local Government council
The Council Chairman therefore urged both federal and state governments to make Agriculture the major Growth driver of the nation’s Economy through increase budgetary allocation to the Ministry of Agriculture, provision of subsidized inputs, and enhance access to funding for small holder farmers, whom he described as “the silent heroes that keep our tables supplied.”
He also called for the protection of biodiversity, the preservation of soil fertility, and the strengthening of security across farmlands to ensure farmers can cultivate without fear. According to him, “When we destroy the soil, we destroy the soul of our sustenance.”
Hon. Chukwunwike further appealed to leaders at all levels to prioritize agricultural development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 2, which seeks to end hunger, achieve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture.
He called on the residents of Aniocha South, Deltans, and Nigerians at large to embrace farming, no matter the scale ; whether backyard gardens, household farms, or large-scale plantations ;saying that “owning a farm today is an investment in tomorrow’s survival.”
The council boss reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to agricultural empowerment, recalling that under his administration, over 100 farmers across Aniocha South have been empowered with funds, farm implements, knapsack sprayers, herbicides, and improved seedlings to enhance productivity and encourage rural farmers, especially in the rich agrarian communities of the local government.
He also pledged to do even more in alignment with the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s “MORE Agenda”.
According to pastor. Chukwunwike, agriculture remains the surest path to economic recovery and youth empowerment. “If our youths can channel half of their energy into farming as they do on social media, we would have a revolution in food production,” he said .underscoring his belief that agriculture is both dignified and profitable.
Beyond policy and advocacy, Hon. Pastor Jude Chukwunwike leads by example. Despite his busy schedule as the political leader of Aniocha South, he personally maintains a thriving farm , a venture he says, is to “show that farming is not a burden but a blessing.”
He called on Nigerians urging them to plant something and nurture the earth:
“Let every hand till the soil, let every heart cherish the harvest. A grain planted today is a gift to the next generation.”
As Aniocha South joins the global community in celebrating World Food Day 2025, the council under the visionary leadership of Hon. Chukwunwike stands tall in its commitment to sustainable agriculture, food sufficiency, and the empowerment of farmers ; ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of nourishment and national growth.
