By Abidemi Samuel
Kindly share this news
Nigeria faces significant food security challenges exacerbated by escalating conflicts, economic instability, and a typical staple food price crisis. The country’s food crisis has been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, leading to a sharp increase in food prices and a decline in food availability.
According to an expert in food security, the crisis will last longer than expected due to several factors. “The root causes of the food crisis in Nigeria are complex and deeply entrenched,” said Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a renowned expert in food security. “The country’s reliance on imported food, inadequate agricultural infrastructure, and lack of investment in rural development have contributed to the crisis.”
Dr. Adesina noted that the conflict in the north-eastern region of the country has disrupted agricultural production and led to the displacement of farmers, further exacerbating the food crisis. “The conflict has also led to a decline in the production of staple crops such as maize, rice, and wheat,” he said.
Furthermore, the economic instability in Nigeria has made it difficult for the government to implement effective policies to address the food crisis. “The country’s economy is heavily reliant on oil exports, and the decline in oil prices has led to a shortage of foreign exchange, making it difficult to import food,” Dr. Adesina explained.
The expert also pointed out that climate change has had a significant impact on agricultural production in Nigeria. “The changing weather patterns have led to droughts, floods, and heatwaves, which have affected crop yields and livestock production,” he said.
To address the food crisis, Dr. Adesina recommended that the government invests in rural development, improves agricultural infrastructure, and supports small-scale farmers. “The government should also implement policies to reduce food prices and increase food availability, such as subsidizing food production and distribution,” he said.
Additionally, Dr. Adesina suggested that the government should prioritize conflict resolution and security to allow farmers to return to their farms and resume production. “The government should also invest in climate-resilient agricultural practices to help farmers adapt to the changing weather patterns,” he said.
The food crisis in Nigeria has severe implications for the country’s population, particularly the vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly. It is essential that the government takes immediate action to address the crisis and ensure that Nigerians have access to affordable and nutritious food.
As the situation continues to unfold, experts and stakeholders are calling for urgent attention to be paid to the food crisis in Nigeria. With the right policies and investments, it is possible to address the crisis and ensure food security for all Nigerians.