Engage in farming, Adewara appeals to churches

By Chukwuma Umeorah

The Provost of Elife Academy and producer of the Mentoring Masterclass, Dr. Bola Adewara, has urged churches in Nigeria to embrace farming as a means of addressing food insecurity and supporting their congregations, particularly in the face of current economic challenges.

Speaking at a recent media chat, Adewara emphasised the importance of food production, stating that farming should not be left solely to those with large farmlands. He encouraged individuals and institutions, including religious organisations, to take advantage of the rainy season by cultivating essential crops using innovative methods, such as backyard farming and container gardening.

Adewara particularly called on churches to invest in agriculture, saying, “If churches could go into real estate, educational institutions and hospital projects, there is nothing wrong if they also look at the way of farming. It is exhilarating for me that some big churches have acquired several hectares in different parts of Nigeria for farming. Small churches should do the same. When it is time for harvest, they will have enough to take care of the widows, orphans, visitors and first-timers.”

He further highlighted the potential for job creation within religious communities, stating that, “Taking to farming will also be another employment opportunity for the youth in their midst. Evangelism is best done when the stomach is filled. Jesus first fed the people before preaching. Empty stomachs can’t hear the words of God.”

Beyond religious institutions, Adewara urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity presented by the rainy season to plant food crops, stressing that “a wise man will seize this opportunity to create a stable kitchen for his family. If we work to conquer hunger, we have conquered shame and worry.”

He warned against taking the planting season lightly, emphasising that self-sufficiency in food production would not only mitigate rising food costs but also strengthen resilience in difficult times. “This is not just a call to action but a call to wisdom. The rain is here. Let us make the most of it. Plant something today, and reap the benefits in the months to come,” he concluded.