Of 40 million agricultural households and a nation in hunger

The recent National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report reveals that 40 million Nigerian households are engaged in agriculture, but this hasn’t prevented widespread hunger and food insecurity. Despite this high involvement, the country faces significant agricultural inefficiencies and economic underdevelopment. The report suggests many of these households practice subsistence farming with little surplus, highlighting the need for better definitions and more effective policy interventions. The gap between agricultural contribution to GDP and high rural poverty rates underscores the necessity for economic diversification and improved agricultural productivity. The focus should shift from merely increasing the number of farmers to enhancing efficiency, innovation, and commercial farming practices to truly harness Nigeria’s agricultural potential and address food insecurity. Source: BusinessDay

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The recent NBS report highlights the critical disconnect between Nigeria’s vast agricultural workforce and the persistent food insecurity plaguing the nation. With over 200 million Nigerians involved in agriculture, yet facing high levels of poverty and low productivity, the data underscores the urgent need for an agricultural revolution. Transitioning from subsistence farming to efficient, innovative agricultural practices is essential. Focused interventions, commercial farm development, and rural economic diversification are imperative to unlock the sector’s potential and ensure food security.