Malam Saliu Mustapha, the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has demonstrated strong legislative advocacy within his six months in office by sponsoring five bills. The bills aim to fortify the nation’s financial sector and promote technological advancements in agriculture to enhance food productivity and security in Nigeria.
Among the bills sponsored by Senator Mustapha are the National Food Reserve Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023, which focuses on developing the agricultural sector to ensure national food security and income through marketing and storage services. Additionally, the Donkey Slaughter Regulation and Export Certificate Bill, 2023, and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023, further underscore his commitment to improving various facets of the agricultural landscape.
The Cassava Flour (Mandatory Inclusion into Flour Production) Bill, 2023, seeks to establish a legal and regulatory framework for the compulsory inclusion of cassava flour in edible flour production in Nigeria. Furthermore, the Electronics Transaction Bill 2023, aims to provide a legal and regulatory framework for electronic or related media transactions.
Alhaji Tunji Buhari, Chief of Staff to Senator Mustapha, highlighted the senator’s passion for the agricultural sector, particularly its significant contribution of 23 percent to the country’s GDP in the third quarter of 2023. Emphasizing that the agricultural sector could become the backbone of the nation’s economy with the right technology, Buhari also shared that over 2000 solar-powered streetlights were installed across the 52 wards of Kwara Central Senatorial District. Additionally, two solar-powered motorized boreholes were provided in specific communities to enhance access to water.
In response to the removal of fuel subsidy, Senator Mustapha rolled out palliatives to complement the efforts of the Kwara State Government. This included the provision of 10,000 bags of rice and 2,800 live chickens for Christian brethren, the less privileged, party faithful, and communities, aiming to alleviate the hardship faced by residents during the festive period. Buhari highlighted the senator’s commitment to supporting the AbdulRazaq-led administration by providing multi-million naira palliative support, including food items and cash donations to individuals and less privileged individuals.