The African Agricultural Technology Foundation, AATF, has appointed the former president of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan as its Africa’s Ambassador.
This was confirmed in a statement released by Mr. Alex Abutu, the Communication Officer of the foundation.
The appointment came shortly after the foundation had a meeting with Jonathan in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State.
Dr Canisius Kanangire, the Executive Director of the foundation, said the appointment of the former Nigerian leader was motivated by his sound track record and ability to transform a agriculture in Africa.
The statement reads: “Dr Kanangire said that Dr Jonathan ’s commitment to uplift agriculture on the continent was exemplified by the Agricultural Transformation Agenda he pursued and diligently implemented in Nigeria during his tenure as President.
“The agenda targeted increasing efficiency and profitability in about 12 selected key agricultural commodities, which include: cotton, cocoa, cassava, oil palm, maize, soya bean, onion, rice, livestock, fisheries, tomato and sorghum.
“Under the agenda about 3.5 million new jobs were created based on the selected key products, while many more jobs were created from other value chains activities, with over N300 billions of additional income in the hands of Nigerian farmers and rural entrepreneurs. In addition, over N60 billion (US$380 million) injected into the economy from the substitution of 20% of bread wheat flour with cassava flour.
“Another critical element of Dr. Goodluck’s agricultural legacy as President of Nigeria was his ability to cut down on the importation of food that can be produced locally, thereby, saving the nation well over N1.3 trillion per annum on the importation of foodstuff.
“Dr Jonathan was able to demonstrate in Nigeria that agriculture should be treated as a business and supported by relevant policies for the improvement of the livelihoods of our growing farming population.”
It further said: “As AATF’s Ambassador, Dr. Jonathan will advocate for advancement of Africa’s agricultural goals and economic growth through application of innovative technologies and enhanced investment in agriculture.
“AATF is honoured to have the former president as our Ambassador, whose role will accelerate ongoing efforts to improve our agricultural terrain.”
