Reps consider bill seeking military ownership of farms

The House of Representatives has proposed a bill seeking direct involvement of the military in farming, ranching and other agricultural-related activities in a bid to support the Federal Government’s effort to address the food crisis in the country.

Titled ‘A Bill for an Act to Establish the Armed Forces Farms and Ranches Scheme, Enhance Food Security, Promote Economic Diversification and for Other Related Matters,’ the bill was read for the first time on the floor of the House last week.

The Nigerian government had called for the utilisation of land owned by the military for agricultural purposes in July 2024, as part of efforts to mitigate the ongoing food crisis in the country.

Part II of the bill sponsored by the member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Lagos State, Mr Babajimi Benson, read “Armed Forces Farms and Ranches Scheme shall be implemented by the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the supervision of the Minister of Defence in collaboration with relevant government agencies, private sector partners and international organisations.”

Section 3 of the bill listed the objective of the scheme to include “Enhancing national food security by increasing agricultural production; utilising military resources for large-scale farming projects and promoting economic diversification by fostering the development of agriculture as a viable alternative to the oil-dependent economy.”

When established, the scheme shall be managed by a board led by a chairperson to be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Minister of Defence.

In an interview with our correspondent, Babajimi said the bill, when passed would protect farmlands and farmers.

He said, “We are all witnesses to the havoc caused by banditry particularly its effect on agricultural production. Do you think the bandits will have the guts to attack farms and ranches managed by the military?

“This bill is in support of the call by President Bola Tinubu for the military to venture into farming by taking advantage of the vast land assets under their control.”

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