Securing Nigeria’s Future Through Food Security Policy*

By Seyifunmi Odunuga

“Food security is no longer just a rural concern—it is a national priority tied directly to Nigeria’s economic stability and growth. Recent empirical evidence shows that agriculture remains a powerful driver of the economy, with increases in agricultural output significantly boosting GDP.”

Speaking with our  correspondent at the just concluded University of Abuja Convocation, Dr. (Mrs.) Olubunmi Akanbi, an Agricultural Economist, researcher, and policy analyst, who was also among the PhD graduands, stressed that any serious effort to strengthen Nigeria’s economy must begin with deliberate policies that support agricultural productivity.

Dr. (Mrs.) Akanbi expressed concern over the challenges bedevilling the sector, particularly insecurity in farming communities, which has significantly disrupted production. She also highlighted inflation and exchange rate volatility as key issues increasing the cost of farm inputs and limiting farmers’ capacity to expand.

She advised that urgent and targeted interventions are needed to mitigate these challenges and prevent further threats to food availability and affordability across the country.

According to her, government policies must shift from general spending to strategic investments in mechanization, irrigation, and improved seed systems—proven measures for boosting yield and ensuring a stable food supply. She further emphasized that strengthening security in rural areas is critical to protecting farmers and restoring confidence in agricultural activities.

Dr. Akanbi also underscored the importance of developing agricultural value chains. She noted that food production alone is insufficient without corresponding investments in storage, processing, and transportation systems to reduce post-harvest losses and stabilize prices. 

In addition, she called for a more coordinated, data-driven approach to agricultural policy for improved planning and timely response to emerging challenges.

“Ultimately, food security is economic security,” she stated, warning that any nation unable to feed itself risks inflation, unemployment, and social instability.

She concluded that with the right policies in place, Nigeria can secure not only its food systems but also build a more prosperous and resilient future.