FG directs the ministry to suspend prayer, fasting to put an end to the food crisis – Thage

By Victor Osula, Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Safety has suspended its proposed prayer and fasting scheme intended to seek divine intervention to face the growing crisis of the country.

The suspension comes a few days after an internal trapped circular, dated 11 June 2025, commissioned the staff including directors, deputy director, assistant directors and officials of the value chain to attend weekly spiritual sessions at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

The Directive, signed by the Director of the Management of Human Resources, Mrs. AdeDayo Modipe O., had scheduled the sessions for 16, 23 and 30 June, with the theme “Divine intervention for protection and national development”. The goal was to look for spiritual support for government efforts to guarantee food safety.

However, in a follow-up reminder issued by the same official, the program was postponed to further notice. There were no reasons for change.

The decision of the Ministry to cancel the sessions has followed widespread criticism by the public and the media. Many Nigerians have expressed concern about the adequacy of addressing spiritual measures while food prices continue to rise and millions must face serious hunger. Critics asked for stronger practical solutions and political responses to face the current food insecurity instead of relying on religious meetings.