Nigeria Can Survive With Agriculture, Says Afe Babalola
- Laments Laziness, Indolence Among Youths
Elder statesman and Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, has declared that Nigeria can survive and thrive through agriculture if properly managed, lamenting the growing laziness and indifference of many Nigerian youths toward productive engagements.
Speaking over the weekend, Babalola said the country’s increasing dependence on government palliatives was a dangerous sign of moral and economic decay.
According to him, many Nigerians now prefer collecting free handouts instead of engaging in meaningful labour.
He warned that it is unconstitutional for government to encourage indolence and begging in the absence of any natural disaster such as earthquakes or floods.
Babalola also criticised the attitude of some roadside traders who cut yams into small portions for sale, describing it as an absurd and abominable practice that undermines agricultural productivity.
He urged traditional rulers and local councils to outlaw the act in the interest of food preservation and discipline in the sector.
Babalola reiterated his belief that agriculture remains Nigeria’s most viable path to economic stability and youth employment. “If well managed, agriculture alone can sustain this nation. It is the foundation upon which all great economies were built,” he declared.
A journalist with a speciality in politics, judiciary, and investigation for in-depth stories as a correspondent, among others. He covers all segments of Ekiti State, providing a platform for the people to air their views on issues affecting them.
