As hunger accelerates in Nigeria, the nation’s largest challenge is how to achieve food security and diversify its economy through agriculture. Experts assert that large-scale technology adoption and collaboration between the public and private sectors are essential for driving significant improvements in agricultural productivity.

Innovative technologies, including farm machinery, drones, and artificial intelligence, are reshaping crop production globally. Nigerian farmers can benefit from these advancements by learning from countries that have successfully leveraged technology to enhance food production. AfricaFarmer Mogaji, CEO of X-ray Farms Consulting, emphasizes the need for government collaboration with private entities to address obstacles affecting agricultural productivity and improve food accessibility, affordability, and availability for Nigerians.

Mogaji stated, “Nigerians have not paid attention to technology and innovation in the sector, and it is the way to go if we want to make agriculture profitable.”

As World Food Day approaches with the theme “Right to food for a better life and a better future,” Nigeria faces its worst cost of living crisis in decades, undermining citizens’ right to food. President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms have resulted in soaring prices and squeezed household budgets, further exacerbating the food crisis.

Experts advocate for public-private partnerships as a viable solution to stimulate investment in agriculture, addressing the country’s pressing food challenges. Adebowale Akande, director of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), highlighted the importance of collaboration at the AgriConnect Summit, noting that IITA is already working with agribusinesses and local governments to bolster food security.

The security crisis in Nigeria also poses a significant threat to agriculture, particularly due to violent conflicts between herdsmen and farmers. Tajudeen Ibrahim, director of research and strategy at Chapel Hill Denham, stressed the need for community-level interventions to resolve these conflicts and foster food security.

Ibrahim suggested, “State governments should collaborate with community leaders to monitor household demographics. This grassroots approach will ultimately improve food production.”

In summary, Nigeria’s agricultural sector must embrace technology and foster robust public-private partnerships to effectively tackle food insecurity and enhance economic diversification. Addressing both agricultural productivity and security challenges will be pivotal for the nation’s food future.

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