The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has suspended its planned prayer and fasting sessions aimed at achieving national food security, following significant public backlash.
An internal circular, dated June 11, had previously invited senior staff, including directors, deputy directors, assistant directors, and value chain desk officers, to weekly spiritual gatherings at the ministry’s Abuja headquarters.
The initiative, tagged “Divine Intervention for Protection and National Development,” was scheduled for June 16, 23, and 30, with staff expected to attend in a fasting state.
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The circular stated its purpose was “for God’s guidance and supporting the Government’s effort to achieve food security.”
However, in a follow-up communication, the same director announced the spiritual exercise’s postponement until further notice, without providing an official reason for the reversal.
This abrupt change of course came after widespread criticism from netizens, many of whom questioned the appropriateness of seeking spiritual solutions while millions of Nigerians face soaring food prices and widespread hunger.
Critics argued that the Ministry should instead prioritize tangible policy interventions, such as improving agricultural infrastructure, providing farmer subsidies, and enhancing food distribution systems.
As one social media commentator put it, reflecting a common sentiment: “This is not the time for optics or rituals. Nigerians need food security plans, not prayer schedules.”
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