Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, has expressed optimism about Zamfara State’s potential to become a leading food-producing state in Nigeria.

Speaking during a tour of northwestern states, which included visits to Kaduna, Kano, and Zamfara, Tanko emphasized the need for Nigeria to transition from a consumption-driven economy to one focused on production.

“Zamfara is supposed to be one of the food baskets of our nation,” Tanko said.

“We must ensure that there is prosperity in the land, and with that, security becomes easier to achieve.”

He criticized the current economic approach, arguing that subsidizing consumption rather than production is unsustainable.

“What we are doing in Nigeria today is subsidizing consumption, and that must change. Even if the government provides financial support, it should subsidize production, not consumption,” he stated.

Tanko also highlighted the potential for Zamfara to leverage its agricultural resources for export.

“There’s nothing stopping these states from exporting food items after meeting local consumption needs,” he noted.

He added that such a shift would improve the nation’s economy and provide opportunities for youth employment.

During his visit to Gusau, Tanko conveyed a message of compassion and condolences on behalf of the Obidient Movement’s leader, Peter Obi, to the Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammad Bello Sarkin Katsinan Gusau.

The Emir, who was away for medical reasons, was represented by Alhaji Bashir Kabiru Danbaba, the Senior District Head of Gusau.

Tanko also took the opportunity to meet with key stakeholders of the Obidient Movement in Zamfara, reinforcing the group’s commitment to fostering a new and prosperous Nigeria.

He concluded with a rallying call for change: “A New Nigeria is possible.”