FG Blames ‘Devil’ for Nigeria’s Hardship as Agriculture Minister Declares 3-Day Fasting and Prayer Against Hunger

FG Blames ‘Devil’ for Nigeria’s Hardship as Agriculture Minister Declares 3-Day Fasting and Prayer Against Hunger

 

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has called on its staff to embark on a three-day period of fasting and prayer to seek divine intervention amid the country’s worsening food crisis.

 

The ministry, in an internal memo dated June 11 and signed by Director of Human Resource Management, Mrs. Adedayo Modupe, instructed all staff to observe fasting on Mondays — June 16, 23, and 30 — as well as participate in a 30-minute prayer session scheduled for noon at the ministry’s Conference Hall B in Abuja.

 

The circular, with reference number AGR.12/S.27/1091/1/12, was addressed to top ministry personnel including Directors, Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, Value Chain Desk Officers, and all staff members.

 

Themed “Divine Intervention for Protection and National Development,” the exercise is aimed at invoking spiritual support for the government’s efforts to overcome the food supply and affordability crisis.

 

“This is to invite all staff of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to a solemn prayer session for God’s guidance and success in supporting the Government’s efforts to achieve food security,” the memo read.

The ministry’s action comes amid growing economic hardship, inflation, and mounting public frustration over the high cost of living. Though the government has rolled out various interventions to boost local food production and reduce reliance on imports, many Nigerians continue to struggle with daily sustenance.

 

In an earlier statement attributed to government officials, the hardship has been described as the handiwork of the “devil,” signaling a spiritual framing of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges.

 

While the call for divine intervention reflects the deeply religious character of the Nigerian populace, critics argue it highlights the federal government’s failure to present concrete policy solutions to the crisis.

 

“This is not the time for symbolism. Nigerians need practical solutions—support for farmers, subsidies, and effective distribution systems,” said an agricultural economist who spoke on condition of anonymity.

 

Nonetheless, supporters of the initiative say the spiritual approach is not a substitute for action, but rather a complementary effort to rally hope and unity in the face of adversity.

 

As the country grapples with soaring food prices and rising poverty, all eyes are on the government not just for prayers—but for policy.

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