Ex-Minister Advocates for Moringa Cultivation to Boost Economy and Public Health

Former Minister of State for Health, Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher, has called on the federal, state, and local governments, as well as higher education institutions, to actively engage in moringa cultivation due to its economic, employment, and health benefits.

Speaking in Abuja after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with various agricultural organizations, Hagher urged universities and polytechnics to establish moringa farms as a means of revenue generation and wealth creation.

Describing moringa as a “miracle plant”, the former minister emphasized its scientifically proven ability to treat various ailments. He highlighted Nigeria’s health policy challenges, stressing the need to shift away from chemical-based medicines toward natural remedies like moringa.

“Planting moringa is the cheapest way for people to attain premium health. We need to go natural. If we make moringa widely available, we will have a healthier population.”

Hagher also criticized the negative effects of chemical fertilizers on soil quality, urging Nigerians to adopt organic moringa-based fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.

“We can no longer endure the damage caused by imported chemical fertilizers. They degrade our soil and create dependency.”

As Grand Patron of the Middle Belt Youth Development Organization, he further emphasized that agriculture is key to national security, calling on the federal government to invest in the production of moringa fertilizer to achieve food security.

“One seed of moringa is more powerful than an AK-47.”

Dr. Ashimashiga Akoloaga, Chairman/CEO of the Moringa Productions, Marketers, and Farmers Welfare and Empowerment Association of Nigeria, stated that the MoU aims to promote youth participation in moringa farming. The initiative will train farmers to produce moringa-based products that meet international market standards.

He acknowledged past rejections of Nigerian agricultural exports due to excessive chemical content and urged the adoption of organic fertilizers for improved crop yields and soil health.

Chris Aba, President of the Middle Belt Youth Development Organization, listed the economic and health benefits of moringa products. He encouraged Nigerian investors to support moringa cultivation, seeing it as a key driver of national economic growth.

With increased backing from government agencies, institutions, and private investors, moringa farming could become a transformative force for Nigeria’s agriculture, economy, and healthcare sector.