Agricultural stakeholders have emphasized the urgent need for policy adjustments, increased funding, and technological advancements to enhance the country’s food production and supply systems.
During the National Stakeholder Dialogue on Food Security held in Abuja on Thursday, experts, policymakers, and development partners gathered to discuss key challenges and solutions for ensuring sustainable food availability across Nigeria.
With the theme “Enhancing Food Security in Nigeria: Closing the Gaps,” the event focused on addressing fundamental obstacles such as climate change, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted financial access for smallholder farmers.
Adetola Adegbite, the Country Director of One Acre Fund, highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach, stressing that despite Nigeria’s rich agricultural resources, food insecurity remains a pressing issue.
“Nigeria has the capacity to be a top food producer in Africa, yet a significant number of people still face difficulties in accessing nutritious meals,” Adegbite said. “Beyond production, challenges in distribution, affordability, and climate-related risks must also be addressed.”
The discussions underscored the importance of translating research into practical solutions to benefit farmers at the grassroots level.
Millindi Sibomana, Chief Agriculture Officer at One Acre Fund, pointed out that smallholder farmers, who are responsible for over 70% of Nigeria’s food supply, struggle with inadequate access to quality inputs, financial support, and reliable markets.
“Providing farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge is essential. Without these, food shortages and rising costs will persist,” Sibomana warned.
Stakeholders urged the government to establish policies that would encourage private-sector involvement, improve rural infrastructure, and incorporate climate-smart agricultural practices into national development strategies.
Emmanuel Bamgboye, the Field Operations Lead for One Acre Fund, highlighted the human impact of food insecurity, stating that a significant portion of Nigeria’s population lacks a reliable source of food.
“Food insecurity is more than an economic concern—it affects health, education, and social stability. Addressing it must be a priority,” he emphasized.
As the event concluded, participants committed to implementing practical solutions, enhancing agricultural value chains, and strengthening partnerships between government agencies, investors, and local farmers.
With Nigeria’s population expected to surpass 250 million by 2050, experts cautioned that without immediate interventions, food shortages could escalate, leading to heightened poverty and instability.
Despite these concerns, they expressed confidence that with strategic investments and well-structured policies, Nigeria’s agricultural sector could thrive and ensure long-term food security.
