The Current Situation Affecting Farmers in Nigeria: A Call to Action (Part 1)
By Abayomi Odunowo.
The recent removal of subsidies, coupled with the devaluation of the Naira and the harmonization of exchange rates, has created a turbulent environment for farmers across Nigeria. These economic shifts have not only escalated the costs associated with farming but have also weakened the purchasing power of farmers. Consequently, the agricultural sector, which is pivotal to Nigeria’s economy, finds itself in jeopardy. Farmers are grappling with increased costs of essential inputs, diminished access to affordable credit, and disruption in market access, all of which threaten their livelihoods and, by extension, national food security.
As food prices soar and incomes dwindle, the plight of local farmers emerges starkly. The repercussions of these economic changes ripple through rural communities, exacerbating poverty and pushing many farmers into debt. Families who relied on farming as their sole source of income are now faced with the grim reality of failing crops, inadequate resources, and insufficient market support. With the local agriculture sector struggling, the country risks becoming increasingly dependent on food imports, putting additional strain on foreign reserves and leading to a cycle of dependency that undermines national sovereignty. Failure to act decisively to bolster the agricultural sector could lead to widespread food insecurity, unemployment, and social unrest—challenges that the country cannot afford to ignore.
To address these pressing challenges and revitalise the agricultural sector, each of Nigeria’s 36 state governments must adopt a series of strategic interventions. By implementing a comprehensive approach that encompasses financial, infrastructural, and educational support, state governments can empower farmers to thrive in an increasingly hostile economic landscape.
1. Input Support Programs:
By providing subsidized or bulk-purchased fertilizers, seeds, and agrochemicals through cooperatives, states can alleviate the immediate financial burden on farmers. Collaboration with agribusiness firms can further secure affordable farm inputs, while establishing a revolving fund allows farmers to access low-cost inputs on credit.
2. Access to Affordable Credit:
State-backed agricultural credit guarantee schemes can enhance farmers’ ability to secure loans without excessive collateral. By encouraging local banks to offer agriculture-friendly financial products with single-digit interest rates, the financial landscape can transform to support farmers’ needs more effectively.
3. Irrigation and Mechanization Support: Investing in irrigation projects to promote year-round farming is vital. Mechanization centers should be established to provide crucial equipment at reasonable costs, and partnerships with the private sector can foster leasing options for modern machinery.
4. Farmers’ Cooperative Strengthening: Supporting and formalizing farmers’ cooperatives will empower farmers by providing them with better negotiation power in purchasing inputs and marketing their produce. Training cooperative leaders in financial management can ensure effective governance and sustainability.
5. Price Stabilization and Market Access: Establishing commodity aggregation centers can enable farmers to store their produce and access better pricing, while state-managed commodity boards can help regulate prices and prevent exploitation.
6. Agro-Processing and Value Addition: Incentives for state-based agro-processing industries are essential to enhancing farmers’ earnings and reducing post-harvest losses. This includes establishing processing hubs for staple crops and encouraging private-sector investment through grants and tax breaks.
7. Subsidized Transportation and Logistics:
State-subsidized transportation for farm produce can significantly reduce costs and improve market access. Furthermore, enhancing rural road infrastructure will connect farmlands with urban centers more efficiently.
8. Climate-Smart Agriculture and Extension Services:
Investing in agricultural extension services will equip farmers with sustainable farming practices. Promoting climate-resilient crops and alternative soil enrichment techniques can reduce dependency on expensive foreign inputs.
9. Export Promotion for Forex Earnings: Supporting export-oriented farming initiatives can help farmers meet international standards, enabling them to access lucrative global markets.
10. Special Agricultural Economic Zones (AEZs)3
Creating AEZs with incentives for agribusiness investors can stimulate agricultural productivity and processing capabilities.
11. Technology and Digital Farming: By providing farmers with access to digital platforms that offer real-time market information and e-wallet schemes, we can facilitate better decision-making and reduce reliance on intermediaries.
12. Insurance and Risk Mitigation:
State-backed agricultural insurance programs will provide farmers with necessary safeguards against climate-related risks, while disaster relief funds can support farmers in times of natural distress.
By implementing these strategic initiatives, state governments can significantly strengthen the agricultural sector in Nigeria. These measures will not only enhance farmers’ resilience against economic fluctuations but will also improve food security, generate employment opportunities, and attract private sector investments. It is imperative that we act now to ensure that our local farmers are supported, empowered, and equipped to face the multifaceted challenges ahead. Our future, resting as it does on the success of agriculture, depends on it.
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG
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AATSG Media.
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