By Ojugbele Omotunde
The tremendous contributions of Nigeria’s smallholder farmers must be acknowledged in order to fully tell the story of the country’s growth and prosperity.
These men and women, who are frequently disregarded, constitute the backbone of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, and guaranteeing food security and making a significant contribution to country’s GDP (gross domestic product).
President Muhammadu Buhari, in his goodwill message to farmers in 2019, described them as “our authentic heroes” and acknowledged the government’s commitment to supporting them.
The commendable efforts of Nigerian farmers resonate with the global narrative of farmers as unsung heroes of society.
Across the world, smallholder farmers constitute the backbone of numerous economies, often working tirelessly to develop less than one hectare of land for the cultivation of various crops.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), smallholder farmers account for approximately 88% of Nigeria’s farmers and produce 98% of its agricultural output.
Related Posts
This includes a diverse range of produce like maize, rice, soybeans, sorghum, cocoa, yam, and more and despite their significant contributions, many of these farmers live in poverty.
These farmers also face numerous challenges, ranging from unpredictable climate conditions, fluctuating crop prices, inadequate funding, and failed intervention promises. This no doubt has resulted in economic tensions and repercussions on the market, impacting their livelihoods.
Lack of know-how, inaccurate documentation, and funding are also challenges bedeviling Nigerian stakeholders farmers because investors consider it riskier than other investment fields.
The challenges faced by these farmers are not limited to Nigeria, farmers across the globe are grappling with the unpredictable nature of global climate change which makes it even more crucial for governments and stakeholders to invest in cutting-edge farming technology and provide support to these farmers to ensure food security.
Amid these challenges, several farmers have emerged as pioneers of sustainable agriculture.
Farmers like Bernie Prince, co-founder of FRESHFARM Markets, and Larry Jacobs, founder of Jacobs Farm, have championed organic farming and have made significant contributions to their local economies and communities.
Companies like Nigerian Agip Oil Company and AFEX commodities have also been instrumental in organizing events like Farmers’ Day to celebrate and empower these farmers by providing support to them.
Nigeria’s future agriculture depends on these farmers, who can ensure food security, create jobs, contribute to economic growth with the right support and investment as they are not just food producers but also business owners, teachers, innovators, and land stewards, inspiring us with their resilience and determination.
