By Stella Odueme
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, CON, has expressed grief over the killing of 15 farmers in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State by suspected terrorists.
Kyari, in a statement issued on October 4, 2026, described the incident as a painful loss, noting that the victims were farmers who were working to provide for their families and contribute to Nigeria’s food security.
He condoled with the families of the deceased, the people of Marte, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, FNIAE, mni, and the entire government and people of Borno State.
The minister prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and asked God to grant their loved ones the strength to cope with the loss.
According to Kyari, the killing of farmers goes beyond the loss of innocent lives, as it also threatens agricultural activities, rural livelihoods and the country’s food security objectives.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s determination, through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to create a secure environment that will enable farmers to cultivate their lands without fear.
Kyari commended the security agencies for their continued efforts to protect farming communities, while urging them to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those behind the attack.
He further called for urgent efforts to find the three persons reportedly missing in connection with the incident.
“Protecting our farmers is protecting Nigeria’s food security,” the minister said.
Kyari also prayed for the safety of farmers and rural communities across the country.