Sufficient budgetary allocation only way for Nigeria to diversify to agriculture – Uzodinma

Agriculture remains a fundamental pillar for Nigeria’s economic diversification and national development. This was highlighted by Governor Hope Uzodinma during the 12th Convocation Lecture at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. Delivering a lecture titled “Agriculture and National Development in a Diversified Economy: A Vision of Renewed Hope through Town and Gown Entrepreneurial Partnerships”, Uzodinma underscored the vital role of sufficient budgetary allocations, efficient resource utilization, and innovative partnerships in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The governor emphasized the importance of past agricultural contributions, citing regional economic reliance on products such as palm oil, cocoa, and groundnuts before the shift to oil in the 1970s. He attributed the decline in agricultural productivity to this shift, urban migration, and inadequate rural investment. To counter this, Uzodinma called for deliberate steps to refocus on agriculture as a means to achieve food security, reduce poverty, and promote rural development.

He highlighted ongoing programs like the National Technology Innovation Plan (NATIP) and the Anchor Borrowers Programme as vital efforts toward economic recovery and agricultural growth. Uzodinma also praised the establishment of Agricultural Business Incubation Centres (ABICs) at Michael Okpara University, which aim to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among stakeholders in the region.

The governor advocated for research-driven agricultural transformation and warned against the nation’s reliance on oil, emphasizing that agricultural innovation must become the bedrock of Nigeria’s economy. He urged Nigeria to prioritize agriculture to ensure food sovereignty and national security, reiterating that a nation unable to feed itself cannot claim true independence.
Source- Business Day

Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders:
Governor Uzodinma’s lecture brings critical insights into the strategic role of agriculture in Nigeria’s quest for economic diversification and national development. By revisiting the successes of the past, such as Michael Okpara’s economic model, the lecture sheds light on the untapped potential within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

However, achieving this vision requires significant investments in rural development, capacity building, and research. Uzodinma’s emphasis on innovative “Town and Gown” partnerships highlights an effective model for leveraging the strengths of academia and local communities. Such collaborations can drive entrepreneurial growth and practical agricultural solutions, fostering resilience and sustainability.

Opportunities for Agri-food Stakeholders;

1. Rural Entrepreneurship Development: Establishment of Agricultural Business Incubation Centres (ABICs) presents opportunities for capacity building and entrepreneurial growth in agriculture.
2. Increased Private Sector Participation: Programs like the Anchor Borrowers Programme offer entry points for private investment to support farmers and boost productivity.
3. Research and Innovation: Universities and research institutions can collaborate with local farmers to develop sustainable practices, improving yields and efficiency.
4. Export Potential: Leveraging Nigeria’s agricultural value chains, such as palm oil and cocoa, can create new export opportunities and enhance foreign exchange earnings.
5. Infrastructure Development: Investments in rural infrastructure, particularly roads and storage facilities, will improve market access and reduce post-harvest losses.
6. Food Security Strategies: Focused efforts to boost agricultural productivity can address food insecurity and reduce dependence on food imports.

Challenges to Address

1. Bridging funding gaps in agricultural programs to ensure effective implementation.
2. Tackling youth migration to urban areas by making rural farming attractive and viable.
3. Combating low productivity through mechanization and modern farming practices.