Hauwa Ali
Related Posts
Each year, October 16 marks World Food Day, an occasion established by the United Nations to promote awareness and action around hunger, food insecurity, and sustainable agricultural practices.
This year’s theme, “Water is Life, Water is Food: Leave No One Behind,” emphasizes the critical role of water in global food production, particularly as climate change disrupts agricultural systems.
For Nigeria, the message couldn’t be more urgent. Africa’s most populous country faces a growing food crisis, exacerbated by economic instability, climate challenges, insecurity, and rising inflation. With millions of Nigerians struggling to afford or access nutritious food, finding lasting solutions is crucial not only for improving livelihoods but also for securing the nation’s future.
According to recent reports from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), over 25 million Nigerians are at risk of food insecurity, with rural communities being hit the hardest. Key drivers of this crisis include: Climate Change as erratic rainfall patterns, drought, and flooding have disrupted agricultural production.
Ongoing conflicts, particularly in northern Nigeria, have also displaced farmers and made farming communities vulnerable. Food prices have surged due to economic instability, making it difficult for families to afford essential items. In addition, Poor storage facilities and inadequate infrastructure have resulted in significant food spoilage, estimated at 40% of agricultural produce.
With 70% of Nigeria’s workforce engaged in agriculture, water is essential for sustaining food production. Yet, Nigeria faces increasing water scarcity as rivers and water bodies dry up due to climate change and overuse. This scarcity threatens not only crop production but also livestock and fisheries, further aggravating the country’s food supply issues.
Smallholder farmers, who account for a large percentage of Nigeria’s food production, are particularly vulnerable to water shortages. Many rely on rain-fed agriculture, leaving them exposed to erratic weather patterns and droughts.
While the challenges are complex, there are practical solutions that can mitigate the food crisis and improve food security in Nigeria:
Adopting drought-tolerant crops and developing irrigation systems can help farmers maintain productivity even with changing weather patterns.
Promoting agroforestry (integrating trees into farms) and conservation agriculture will enhance soil health and prevent land degradation. Improved storage facilities and modern silos will help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that more food reaches the market.
Investing in rural roads and transportation networks will improve access to markets, enabling farmers to sell their produce efficiently.
Given the unpredictability of rainfall, expanding irrigation infrastructure will enable farmers to produce food year-round. Governments and private investors must prioritize water-efficient technologies to conserve resources.
The government can promote agricultural policies that support smallholder farmers by offering subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, and equipment.
Encouraging local processing industries will add value to farm produce and reduce reliance on expensive food imports.
Restoring peace to conflict-prone areas, especially in northern Nigeria, is critical to reviving agricultural activities. Local and federal governments, in partnership with security agencies, must work to protect farmers from attacks and displacement.
With the rapid growth of Nigeria’s urban population, urban agriculture can be a practical solution to food insecurity. Encouraging communities to grow vegetables and fruits in small spaces can enhance local food supply and reduce dependence on imports. Additionally, agritech innovations such as precision farming and mobile platforms offering weather and market data can empower farmers.
Nigeria’s efforts to combat hunger and food insecurity must be supported by sound policies and global partnerships. Programs like the National Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) and initiatives from international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Program (WFP) provide critical support for agricultural development.
However, there is a need for greater policy coherence across sectors, including water management, trade, and agriculture. On World Food Day, governments at all levels are encouraged to renew their commitment to ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food for all Nigerians.
As the world reflects on the importance of food and water on this year’s World Food Day, the stakes are high for Nigeria. Addressing food insecurity is not just about feeding the population, it is about building a resilient economy, securing peace, and improving the overall quality of life.
The path to a food-secure Nigeria lies in innovation, investment, and inclusive policies that empower farmers, protect the environment, and ensure that no one is left behind. While the challenges are significant, Nigeria has the potential to transform its agricultural sector and set an example for other African nations.
By embracing sustainable practices, fostering global partnerships, and ensuring equitable access to resources like water, Nigeria can create a future where everyone has enough to eat—and no one is left behind.
