Food Crisis: Why Gov’t Must Focus On Rice, Maize, Wheat, Millet, Sorghum

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, Nigeria has faced food scarcity issues with rising prices of staple grains like maize and wheat, leading to the closure of poultry farms and job losses for many farmers. Experts urge the government to focus on quick-maturing crops such as rice, maize, and cassava to address food security challenges. Efforts are underway, but issues like round-tripping among farmers have impacted production targets, necessitating a more scientific approach. There’s a call for affluent farmers to support their peers in seed production to enhance overall agricultural productivity and food availability. Source: Daily Trust

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In Nigeria, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food scarcity, particularly affecting staple grains like maize and wheat, leading to the closure of poultry farms and widespread job losses among farmers. With Nigeria’s population projected to reach 450 million by 2050, experts emphasize the urgent need for the federal government to focus on producing quick-maturing crops such as rice, maize, millet, sorghum, and wheat. These crops mature in three months, offering a rapid solution to food insecurity. The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) advocates for a balanced approach, also supporting cash crops to ensure sustainable food production.
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, highlights government efforts through the wet season program but acknowledges challenges like round-tripping in wheat production. He emphasizes transitioning to a scientific approach for maize, rice, and cassava to boost productivity. Professor Garba Sharubutu of ARCN calls for solidarity among farmers, urging prosperous farmers to support their peers to enhance overall agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria.