By Abdullahi Lukman
Global food insecurity affecting about 800 million people has heightened calls for urgent government collaboration with farmers to improve food production and availability in Nigeria.
The Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, Lateef Sanni, made this known during a keynote address at the 37th South West Research Extension Farmers Input Linkage System (REFILS) workshop held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ibadan.
He stressed that stronger synergy between government, researchers, and farmers is essential to achieving national food security.
Represented by Mariam Bola Aremu, Sanni urged farmers to adopt research findings, particularly in response to unpredictable weather conditions, to guide decisions on crop selection and planting periods.
Also speaking, Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Olalekan Emmanuel Akinola, called on governments at all levels to support farmers with mechanised technologies to boost productivity.
He warned against the diversion of agricultural grants to non-practicing farmers, describing it as a threat to food security.
Akinola further emphasised the need for research outcomes to reach farmers rather than remain unused, noting that integrating technology with farming practices would significantly improve food production.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, said innovation must become central to agriculture.
He highlighted the importance of practical solutions such as improved seeds, digital extension services, precision irrigation, and climate-smart practices in addressing food challenges.
Former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, underscored the need for better coordination to reduce post-harvest losses.
He advocated for pricing mechanisms that would protect farmers from losses when their produce remains unsold.
Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Femi Oke, identified lack of financing as a major constraint facing farmers.
He noted that limited access to funds prevents farmers from acquiring equipment needed to scale up production.
Stakeholders at the workshop agreed that improving access to finance, technology, and research-driven practices remains critical to strengthening Nigeria’s food system and addressing growing food insecurity.
