PART TWO PRESENTATION

Preamble

The Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships), Registrar, Bursar, University Librarian, Provost College of Medicine and of the Postgraduate College, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Deans of other Faculties and of the Students, Directors of Institutes/Centres, Heads of Departments, Special Guests, Distinguished Ladies & Gentlemen. 

The second stanza of this lecture will continue with a peep into decolonisation as golden key to unlock food security and emerging champions of this course in Nigeria. The champions are national, state and private initiatives to decolonising food security in an attempt to combat food insecurity, thereby achieving food sovereignty in Nigeria.

3.1 Decolonisation as golden key to unlock food security

Decolonising food security for enduring multi-sectoral pathways for poverty mitigation in Nigeria transcends mere discussions about the impact of colonialism on food systems; it represents a transformative strategy focused on achieving sustainable poverty alleviation. Traditionally, Nigeria’s agricultural sector operated primarily on a subsistence model, catering to local food systems and the needs of the community. Nonetheless, the focus of colonial policies on cash crops like cocoa and palm oil for export undermined local food systems, resulting in a prolonged disruption of Nigeria’s food sovereignty (Oritsejafor, 2022). The enduring impacts of colonialism, along with subsequent mismanagement in the post-colonial era, have intensified issues of food insecurity and poverty, which persistently affect both rural and urban communities in Nigeria today (Amusan, 2019).

Reclaiming indigenous knowledge systems, promoting local food production, and reducing dependency on imported food commodities are essential components of achieving food security in a decolonised context. The focus should extend beyond simply reverting to pre-colonial agricultural methods; Nigeria’s food policies and strategies must promote self-reliance, sustainability, and resilience within its food systems (Demi, 2019).  A nation achieves food security when most of its citizens have reliable access to sufficient and nutritious food that always supports a dignified standard of living. This encompasses the provision, accessibility, and ongoing supply necessary to fulfil acceptable nutritional criteria. Food security encompasses the provision of adequate food necessary for a vibrant and healthy existence, highlighting both the accessibility of food and the ability to obtain it. Nevertheless, the mere presence of food does not adequately account for the complexities of food security within a nation. While effective agricultural policies, good harvests, and significant food importation or aid can enhance food availability, it is important to recognise that these measures may also lead to adverse consequences or serve merely as temporary fixes. 

The case put forth here does not advocate for the continued dependence of Nigerians on a narrow range of foods such as cassava, yam, or millet porridge. It is not an appeal for the revival of obsolete farming methods or labour-heavy agricultural techniques. This piece promotes creative strategies focused on the rich heritage of Nigerian indigenous foods and agricultural methods. This form of innovation emphasises community and interconnectedness over mere financial gain, honouring the land and our planet. 

3.2. Characterisation of decolonising food security in Nigeria 

Decolonisation of food security involves restructuring food systems to address historical injustices and inequalities, while ensuring that all communities have access to nutritious food. Multi-sectoral pathways to achieve poverty mitigation are imbedded in multi-faceted dimensions as reflected in some of the following:

Agro-ecological Practices

Agro-ecology is an interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach that integrates ecological principles with agricultural practices to promote sustainable food systems. It is more than just a set of farming techniques; it encompasses economic, social, cultural, and political dimensions aimed at creating a just and sustainable food system. There are several practical agro-ecological practices that contribute to food security and the decolonisation of food systems. These are Agroforestry, Permaculture and intercropping, Polyculture and Intercropping and seed saving. By blending ecological principles with social justice, agro-ecology offers a pathway to restore balance to the global food system, ensuring that food production is ecologically sustainable, socially just, and rooted in local and indigenous knowledge.

Land Rights and Access

Land rights are central to food security because they define who controls the land, how it is used, and who has access to its resources. Without secure land tenure, people are vulnerable to displacement, exploitation, and the inability to sustain their food needs. To practically realise this, advocating for legal reforms, land restitution, community land trust are strategic options available to institutionalisation. 

Community-Led Initiatives 

Community-led initiatives are vital to the decolonisation of food systems and the enhancement of food security. By empowering local communities to control their food production and distribution, these initiatives challenge the legacies of colonialism, reclaim cultural knowledge, and promote ecological sustainability. These initiatives provide a path toward creating food systems that are just, equitable, and resilient in the face of both historical injustice and modern challenges. 

Education and Capacity Building

Education and capacity building are central to decolonising food systems and achieving food security. They empower communities to reclaim their food sovereignty, restore traditional agricultural knowledge, and build more sustainable, resilient food systems. By prioritising local knowledge, addressing barriers to education, and equipping individuals and communities with the tools and skills they need, we can foster more just and equitable food systems. 

Policy Advocacy

Policy advocacy involves advocating for changes in laws, regulations, and practices at local, national, and global levels to create food systems that prioritise food sovereignty, land and resource justice, agro-ecology and sustainable agriculture and equitable food distribution and access for marginalized groups. To achieve the goals of food security and decolonisation, policy advocacy efforts must focus on several key areas, including land rights, trade policies, agricultural subsidies, and the protection of indigenous knowledge.

Diversification of Food Sources

Historically, many indigenous and local farming systems thrived by growing a variety of crops tailored to local environments. This approach minimizes the risks associated with pest outbreaks, disease, and fluctuating market prices. Crop diversification can take the form of promoting multi-cropping and polyculture instead of planting single crops over vast areas (monoculture). For livestock, there will be a need for a variety of livestock (e.g., poultry, goats, sheep, cattle, rabbits, or pigs).  

Social Safety Nets

Social safety nets are vital tools in ensuring food security, especially in the context of decolonising food systems. They provide a safety buffer to vulnerable populations during times of economic or environmental distress, thereby mitigating the impacts of historical inequities perpetuated by colonialism. Social safety nets, when designed with justice and equity in mind, can help counter these legacies by supporting local food sovereignty, promoting community resilience, and providing sustainable solutions to food insecurity. 

Strengthening Supply Chains

Supply chains in food systems refer to the entire process of producing, processing, distributing, and consuming food. A food supply chain can be global, local, or somewhere in between. In decolonising food security, it is important to recognize how colonial structures of food distribution have historically prioritised profits over people’s needs, marginalising smallholder farmers and promoting exploitative agricultural systems. Key strategies for strengthening food supply chains in the context of decolonisation include localizing food systems, shortening the supply chain, and promoting local food. 

Research and Innovation

Research and innovation in food systems have typically been dominated by multinational corporations and western institutions, often overlooking indigenous knowledge and practices. Decolonising food security through research means fostering innovation that respects local traditions, integrates indigenous knowledge systems, and supports the autonomy of marginalized communities. Research and innovation strategy should aim at being community-driven, with research being conducted in partnership with local farmers, indigenous peoples, and marginalized groups to ensure that solutions are culturally appropriate and grounded in local realities. 

Collaboration Across Sectors

By working together, sectors can address root causes of food insecurity, foster inclusive, participatory decision-making, leverage diverse resources and expertise, and create synergies for sustainable development. By integrating these pathways, it is possible to create an equitable and sustainable food system that not only addresses food security but also contributes to poverty alleviation, food sovereignty and social justice.

3.3 The Emerging Agents of Decolonisation

The issues of food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria are widely recognised and thoroughly documented. Nonetheless, expressing sorrow about the present circumstances without tangible action is futile. Nigeria has abundant agricultural resources, arable land, and a conducive environment for food cultivation. Nevertheless, despite these benefits, the nation persists in contending with extensive food insecurity, mostly attributable to inadequate governance, insufficient policy execution, and excessive dependence on oil income (Demi, 2019). In recent times, a number of national, state and private initiatives have emerged that qualify for description as agents of decolonisation. Some shining examples are hereby presented.   

3.3.1 Presidential Endorsement for Reforms in the Livestock Sector of Nigeria

Acknowledging the importance of the livestock sector’, President Bola Tinubu has instituted a comprehensive reform plan to enhance livestock output, strengthen food security, and provide economic possibilities along the value chain. The administration seeks to overhaul the livestock industry via the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee (PLRIC) and the creation of a specialised Ministry of Livestock Development, focusing on policy innovation, infrastructure investment, and stakeholders’ engagement.

3.3.2 Enhancing Policy Frameworks and Tackling Regulatory Challenges

The Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee (PLRIC) has emphasised the necessity for a cohesive policy framework to tackle current regulatory obstacles that hinder livestock development. A primary obstacle is the issue of double taxes, which imposes a cost on livestock farmers and deters investment. The PLRIC advocated for the establishment of a cohesive digital taxation framework to enhance tax collection efficiency and alleviate the fiscal burden on producers. This strategy aims to foster a more business-friendly atmosphere for the cattle sector by collaborating with the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, therefore lowering expenses and enhancing profitability (PLRIC Communiqué, 2024).

3.3.3 Augmenting Security and Infrastructure for Livestock Advancement

Insecurity continues to be a serious impediment to livestock production in Nigeria, as disputes between herders and farmers, together with occurrences of cattle rustling, disrupt agricultural activity and lead to considerable economic losses. 

3.3.4  Enhancing Accessibility to Financial Resources and Insurance

Access to capital constitutes a significant obstacle for several livestock farmers in Nigeria. Agricultural producers sometimes lack the necessary collateral to get loans, and financial institutions generally perceive livestock raising as a high-risk venture. The PLRIC has advocated for the utilisation of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) to finance the agricultural value chain, encompassing livestock. This fund seeks to facilitate financing access for livestock producers, allowing them to invest in contemporary technology, broaden operations, and enhance production (PLRIC, 2024).

3.3.5 Advocating Public-Private Collaborations and Technological Advancement

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are integral to Nigeria’s livestock reform agenda, facilitating the utilisation of private sector experience, capital, and innovation. Public-private partnerships are anticipated to provide access to sophisticated technology that can augment cattle output. 

3.3.6 Enhancing Waste Management and Environmental Sustainability

The cattle sector is frequently linked to environmental concerns, particularly waste management problems that may result in pollution and health hazards. The PLRIC has proposed the transformation of animal waste into useful commodities, including the utilisation of manure for biogas generation and the hydrolysis of feathers for protein synthesis. 

3.3.7 Promoting Inclusivity and Stakeholders’ Involvement

The efficacy of livestock sector changes relies on the active participation of many stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, and commercial sector entities. The PLRIC has convened seminars to promote interaction among stakeholders, ensuring that policies and activities correspond with the sector’s demands. This could facilitate the government’s establishment of trust with local people, essential for the execution of reforms, especially in conflict-prone regions. 

3.3.8 Enhancing Livestock Value Chains and Export Prospects

The cattle business in Nigeria possesses considerable potential for expansion in both domestic and international markets. President Tinubu’s extensive livestock reform initiative seeks to convert Nigeria’s livestock sector into a productive, sustainable, and economically viable business. Collaboration across federal, state, and local entities can revitalise the livestock industry to address the requirements of Nigeria’s expanding population and support the nation’s development objectives.

3.3.2 Niger State’s Visionary Leadership

Niger State has emerged as a role model for agricultural reform and food security measures in Nigeria, thanks to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s forward-thinking leadership. To promote long-term growth in the agricultural sector, the state is focusing on developing value chains within industry, increasing local output, and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). With its strategically located and plentiful arable land, Niger State plans to become a regional and national food powerhouse, fostering an atmosphere that is favourable to smallholder farmers and agribusinesses. Recent land leasing agreements sponsored by Niger Foods Limited; a state-owned private firm with the purpose to reshape the agricultural landscape of Niger State, serves as a remarkable example of this method in action.  Mokwa Cattle Ranch and the Bida Rice Processing Mill, in addition to these new initiatives like Dangote Rice mill that will sited in Wushishi and biggest in Africa.

3.3.3 Lessons from Niger State Agriculture revolution since 2023 

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu launched the massive Agricultural mechanisation initiative of Farmer Governor Umar Bago on March 11, 2024 the world was a stoned with the massive display of mechanised equipments first of its kind by any sub national that included in summary below:

1. 1100 John Deere Tractors
2. 500 Case Tractors 
3. 140 combine harvester
4.  6000 implements comprising Ploughs, Harrows, Ridgers, Planters, boom sprayers, fertiliser spreaders, drones, etc
5. 500 units of Combined harvesters
6. 10,000 Hand Tillers for smallholder farmers.
7. 10,000 Solar Irrigation Water Pumps 
8. 1000 Pivot Irrigation Systems ordered. 

In 2024, Niger foods did a direct cultivation on 107,000 hectares and small holders 92,000 with total yield of 987,000 tons of rice, maize, sorghum, cowpeas, yam, cassava, millet, soybeans and sesame.  They currently have one of the highest mechanization capacities in Nigeria, including:

There is no doubt this is massive revolution and step forward for meeting FAO recommendations of 1.5hp/ha and extensive labour saving where it takes 60 days to cultivate an hectare of land using hand  hoes; 3 days with draught animals and less than a day using tractor powered precision.   You have brought hope making Agriculture interesting again that even our students now want to go and serve in Niger state for obvious reasons – seeing young girls driving tractors in Niger Foods while our students are still on hoes and cutlasses  almost 77 years after the F irst faculty of Agriculture in Nigeria University System.

The Government established a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) with the Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited procuring machinery and technology for cultivation and land preparation equipment. These include:

1. Provision of 1million Banana suckers
2. Agricultural Land for Farm Estates
3. Water Resources and Irrigation Development 
4. Establish nurseries for 1 billion trees
5. Transforming agriculture through Village level infrastructure
6. Promote rural development and youth empowerment 
7. Poultry houses and hatcheries
8. Cattle and Related Dairy Products 
9. Establishment of Food Park (Suleja/Abuja)
10. Modern fish hatcheries 
11. A 16-million-dollar intervention for planting 19 million trees 
12. Design completed for 2000 green house and hydroponics with 10 times yield capacity than outdoors – year round production and quick response to climate and security concerns.

For Niger State/ Niger Foods, the need for infrastructural and institutional development in handling food for export and local consumption can not be overemphasized, it is unfortunate that a lawless food system can never thrive in the international market where sanity and the rule of law prevail. Hence, for Niger state to diversify its economy and fix the food insecurity issues through improvement in agricultural productivity, justifty ongoing initiatives and measures in place that will ensure that the anticipated increase in production will not result in colossal waste. 

Niger Foods is actively promoting several initiatives 

• Infrastructure Development -This component is supporting the establishment of SAPZ (Special Agro processing zone) to catalyse primary production activities and aggregation of commodities, provision of both hard and soft infrastructure that creates enablers for public and private sector investment into the sector at the upstream and downstream axes of the value chain.  For instance export promotion is guranteed with Bola Ahmed Tinubu international Airport Minna now a Special Agricultural processing free trade zone for Perishable cargo handling, production & processing, storage, greenhouse hydroponic center and packhouses as part of the post-harvest improvement operation, ensuring better produce quality (Compliance trades) and higher export market price. 

• Agricultural Primary Production: This component  seeks to boost the supply of raw materials in the production areas that are linked to the infrastructure with specific attention to the livestock sector, Niger State intend to unleash the power of the pastoral sector by bringing them into the future with the intent of developing Livestock Enterprise Zones. Pastoralists welcome innovations and investments, while integrating  indigenous knowledge and practices as surest decolonisation mechanism including a large capacity slaughterhouse and processing facility to operate model best practices in halal slaughter and meat hygiene with increased Intra-State Cold Chain Logistics (infrastructure/Temperature-Controlled Logistics (TCL) services incorporated that will reduce current animal haulage in trucks like woods.

• The promotion of quality awareness program to address specific constraints, achieve higher productivity and added value by improving the performance to contribute to poverty reduction    

• Lessons from the Value Chain Enhancement in Niger State

One of Niger State’s most notable initiatives is its focus on value chain enhancement, which has helped to strengthen the state’s agricultural sector and improve food security. The state government has implemented programmes that support the entire agricultural value chain, from production to processing, marketing, and distribution (Niger Foods, 2024). By enhancing the value chain, Niger State has not only increased the efficiency of food production but also created job opportunities for thousands of people, contributing to poverty reduction. The fortification of agricultural value chains plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable agricultural development on both a global and local scale. Niger State stands out as one of the Nigerian states effectively employing a value chain approach in agricultural development. The state has witnessed notable progress in agricultural development, attributed to the meticulously designed and implemented FGN/IFAD value chain program. This program operates under three distinct components:

Component I: Agricultural Market Development

• Significantly, within this component, 1,379 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were executed. Specifically, three MoUs were entered into by Jimbo Agro-Remediate Limited Partnership (JARLP), ONYX Rice Mill, and CAISAL to support 100,000 smallholder Farmers and provide continuous training in the use of technology and innovation.

3.3.5 Domestic Food Production

The leadership of Niger State has emphasised domestic food production as a fundamental method for attaining food security. The state has enhanced agricultural output and decreased reliance on food imports by providing local farmers with inputs including seeds, fertilisers, and mechanisation (Niger Foods, 2024). Niger State’s emphasis on local food production has fostered a more robust food system, adept at enduring external shocks such as variations in global food prices or interruptions in international commerce.

3.3.6 Foreign Direct Investments

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has significantly contributed to the agricultural development of Niger State. The state has effectively drawn international investment, especially in agro-processing, storage, and logistics. Niger State has used strategic collaborations with foreign agribusiness firms to access global markets and implement new farming technology, enhancing production and efficiency in its agricultural sector. The state’s partnership with Chinese agricultural companies has led to the creation of three contemporary rice mills with a total processing capacity of 350,000 metric tonnes per year (UNCTAD, 2023). The efficacy of these FDI programmes has stimulated domestic investment, generating a multiplier effect that advantages the whole agricultural value chain. These initiatives have generated approximately 15,000 direct and indirect jobs, considerably enhancing rural employment and economic growth.

3.3.7 Contributions by Family Farms to the Reduction of Import Dependency

Family farms are the foundation of Nigeria’s agricultural economy, and in Niger State, they are essential in diminishing the nation’s reliance on food imports. Recent studies reveal that family farms constitute 78% of Niger State’s overall agricultural production, with more than 60% of these farms attaining food self-sufficiency (IFAD, 2022). The state’s Family Farming Support Programme has benefited more than 100,000 households, resulting in a 40% enhancement in average agricultural production since 2018 (FAO, 2023).

 

3.3. 8 Lessons from Borno State Food Security Agenda

The Governor of Borno State, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum, mni and UI Ambassador has raised the bar in governance and made significant impact in agricultural space of Borno State since he took over from his boss, Vice President Kashim Shettima in 2019. The agricultural revolution in Borno State has been transformative, driven by several key initiatives and developments aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability. 

1. Strategic Investment

The state government, in collaboration with international partners, has significantly increased investment in agricultural infrastructure. This includes the development of extensive irrigation systems, particularly in the Chad Basin area of Baga and Mega farms across the state, which have allowed for year-round farming even in the dry season. These efforts have mitigated the challenges posed by the region’s arid climate.

 

1. Technological Advancement

There has been a concerted push towards modernising agriculture through the adoption of advanced technologies. Farmers have been introduced to improved seed varieties that are more resilient to pests and drought. Additionally, the use of fertilisers and mechanized farming equipment has been promoted, resulting in higher crop yields and reduced labor costs

iii. Capacity Building and Education 

Numerous training programs have been established to educate farmers on sustainable and efficient farming practices. These programs often focus on integrated pest management, soil health, and climate-smart agriculture. By enhancing the skills and knowledge of the farming community, these initiatives have empowered farmers to increase productivity sustainably

iii. Enhanced Market Access 

Improvements in transportation infrastructure, such as roads and storage facilities, have facilitated better market access for farmers. This connectivity has enabled farmers to reach broader markets, ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce. Additionally, initiatives to establish cooperative societies have strengthened farmers’ bargaining power

1. Support for Diversification

Recognizing the importance of diversification, there have been efforts to support both crop and livestock farming. Over 5000 water pumps most of which are solar powered. Over 10000 farmers benefitted from the free and subsidised gesture of assorted farms inputs of Borno State government.

1. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

The state has prioritized involving local communities in agricultural decision-making processes. By engaging farmers, local leaders, and other stakeholders, policies and programs have been tailored to meet the specific needs of different communities, ensuring more effective implementation and greater sustainability.

1. Climate Resilience and Sustainability

With increasing concerns about climate change, efforts have been made to adopt practices that enhance resilience. This includes the promotion of agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and the use of bio-fertilisers to support soil health. Development of the grazing reserves for both domestic and commercial pastures has been prioritised. This is aimed at mitigating the farmer-herder conflicts.

vii. Livestock Development

Governor Zulum made history on January 11, 2025, when he commissioned the first of the three Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement, at Ngarannam in Mafa Local Government Area, Borno state. He constructed 461 housing units, clinics, schools, veterinary hospital, bull and heifer for each family and two goats each for the women in each household.  Under Zulum’s stewardship, Livestock farmers have benefited from restocking of Livestock, veterinary service vaccination programmes, and access to high-quality feed, which have collectively improved animal health and productivity. Establishment of livestock settlement and ranching centers in the 3 senatorial districts has positioned Borno State to harness the potential of the sector.

It is commendable that the action governor has gone ahead to establish Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development in alignment with the PLRIC Inception report  to foster the diversification of its economy and the wellbeing of its citizens in addition it has in place the Borno State Livestock Management Agency (BOLMA) to support implementation of critical livestock policies drive the process. 

3.3.9 Sebore Farms: A Private Dairy Farm

Sebore Farms’ dairy programme is a highly effective example of agricultural development in Nigeria, addressing several critical issues simultaneously, such as economic development, conflict mitigation, and rural infrastructure improvement. Key areas of significant achievements by Sebore Dairy Farm include:

• Economic Growth and Employment that has generated over 20,000 jobs across various sectors which highlights its role in poverty reduction and economic empowerment, particularly for women and youth. 
• Mitigation of Farmer-Herder Conflict by fostering cooperation between traditionally opposing groups through promotion of sustainable grazing practices, shared economic benefits, and community-based conflict resolution. 
• Social Impact and Infrastructure by focusing on women and youth, is a major strength of the programme. Additionally, infrastructure investments, such as solar cold storage and transportation networks, significantly improve rural connectivity and living conditions, making agricultural value chains more resilient to shocks and market fluctuations.
• Social Impact: Plate 15 shows the social impact which clearly indicates the equitable distribution of focus between women and youth, each receiving 40% attention from the programme. The remaining 20% is allocated to other categories such as vulnerable groups or mixed impact areas. 
• Employment Creation:  Figure 30 indicates the employment creation in Sebore Farms’ dairy programme with the highest number of jobs created in farming (6,000 jobs), followed by processing (4,000 jobs) and distribution (4,000 jobs). This demonstrates the wide-ranging economic benefits of Sebore Farms’ dairy value chain, with youth and women likely benefiting from employment opportunities in various sectors.
• Milk Production Growth: Significant growth in milk production, with an increase from 1000 litres in 2019 to 3,000 litres in 2023 (Figure 31). This threefold increase suggests that Sebore Farms’ dairy programme has successfully improved the local dairy industry This growth trajectory aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals of self-sufficiency in milk production, reducing dependency on dairy imports and improving national food security.
• Infrastructure Development: The infrastructure investment in Sebore Farms (Figure 32) shows the relative distribution of funds across several key areas: milk collection centres (800 million Naira), solar cold storage (600 million Naira), and transportation networks (700 million Naira). These investments not only bolster the dairy value chain but also improve rural living standards and connectivity, which can reduce the vulnerabilities that often lead to social unrest. 

Sebore Farms’ dairy program has had a profound impact on Nigeria’s rural economy, effectively addressing key challenges such as poverty, unemployment, conflict, and infrastructure gaps. It has contributed to national food security, supporting Nigeria’s drive toward self-sufficiency in milk production, and fostering broader economic stability. The integrated nature of the program positions it as a potential model for scaling agricultural development nationwide. Similar efforts are seen in L and Z Kano, Maizube Farms in Minna, Zaima Farms and Dogarawa Farm also in Minna

3.3.10 Lessons from Oyo State Agribusiness model

I am also honoured to present the bold step taken by Oyo State Government on the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ), a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionizing agriculture in Oyo State. This program represents a bold step toward achieving industrial-scale agricultural transformation, driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and ensuring sustainable food production. The SAPZ program integrates agriculture into industrial processes by establishing strategic hubs at AIH Ijaiye, ATC Eruwa, and ATC Fashola, with combined production and processing capacities to sustain industrial operations.  SAPZ also prioritizes youth empowerment through the Youth Employment in Agriculture Program (YEAP), which has trained over 5,000 youths in agribusiness and entrepreneurship. The program’s ambitious targets include cultivating 7,000 hectares of land, establishing 50 agro-industries, transitioning 20,000 farmers to commercial operations, and producing 20 export-ready branded products. We have flourishing examples like success wheat initiatives in Jigawa state and Dangote Sugar Plantations and Nassarawa state multi sector initiatives among others.

In the third and final segment of this university lecture, attention will be shifted into enterprises that could jump start our drive as a nation to decolonising food security, as well as conclusions and policy recommendations to earn food sovereignty.

My deepest appreciations to farmer Governor for beating all odds to be here even ibadan airport couldn’t stop your Excellency. Even your love daughter changed her flight from DC to join you for honoring me with your physical presence today 

I thank you all for your attention.