SWUYN lauds FG moves to deploy drones on farms, urges agric minister to engage unemployed youths on drone services

By Osaro Michael, Benin

The Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN), have applauded the government’s efforts to modernize agriculture through technology -through deployment of drones for farms and food centres.

In a press release by the group’s president Comrade Preye Tambou urged the honourable minister for Agriculture Abubakar Kyari to train unemployed youths to manage the new initiative, citing that the initiative has the potential to boost agricultural productivity and enhance food security in the country.

His words, “however, I must emphasize that the plight of unemployed youths in Nigeria demands more radical and inclusive solutions”

The group explained that while the use of drones in agriculture is a welcome innovation, the technology should benefit the youth, rather than displacing them, stating that the government should establish training programmes for youths to operate and maintain these drones, thereby creating new job opportunities.

The statement reads, “As the Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN), we applaud the government’s efforts to modernize agriculture through technology. This initiative has the potential to boost agricultural productivity and enhance food security in the country. However, I must emphasize that the plight of unemployed youths in Nigeria demands more radical and inclusive solutions.

“While the use of drones in agriculture is a welcome innovation, we must ensure that this technology benefits the youth, rather than replacing them. We propose that the government establish training programmes for youths to operate and maintain these drones, thereby creating new job opportunities.

“The planned youth farmers enrollment portal is a step in the right direction, but we urge the government to ensure that the portal is user-friendly, accessible, and provides adequate support for young farmers. We also recommend that the government provides financial support, mentorship, and resources to help young farmers succeed.

“It is essential to recognize that agriculture is not only a means of sustenance but also a viable business opportunity. Therefore, we propose that the government establish initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in agriculture, particularly among young people.

“In line with the Federal Government’s efforts to modernize agriculture, we suggest that the government collaborates with the private sector to support young Nigerians in taking advantage of the government’s mechanization programme.

“In addition, we take note of the initiative by the Nigerian Youths Economic Engagement and De-Radicalization Programme (NIYEEDEP) discussed with the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, on Monday. We expect that this initiative will complement the government’s efforts to economically engage and de-radicalize Nigerian youths in agriculture and provide them with economic opportunities, aligning with the Ministry’s goals.

“Minister Olawande has shown support for youth empowerment initiatives in the past. For instance, he launched the “Corpreneur Support” initiative, which provides financial support to corps entrepreneurs. This move demonstrates his commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and skill development among young Nigerians.

“It is expected that the NIYEEDEP initiative will receive similar support from the Ministry, focusing on economic engagement and de-radicalization of Nigerian youths.

“In conclusion, while we appreciate the government’s efforts, we urge them to be more proactive in addressing the challenges faced by unemployed youths in Nigeria. We must work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector that benefits all Nigerians. By working together, we can create a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth and ensure that the country’s agricultural sector is sustainable and prosperous for generations to come”, the group noted.