LAGOS, Nigeria – Nigeria has been urged to unlock its vast agricultural potential as food imports continue to exceed $10 billion annually, despite the country’s abundant arable land and youthful population.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Africa Health Report (AHR) during the weekend, a university lecturer and agricultural expert, Dr Israel Ojo, described the nation’s heavy reliance on imports as “unacceptable,” noting that food insecurity persists even with massive spending.
“Large portions of arable land remain underutilised, and inadequate financing continues to cripple the sector,” Ojo said.
He attributed the problem to poor infrastructure, insecurity, and outdated farming practices.
According to him, transforming agriculture into a wealth-creating industry requires changing public perception. “Agriculture, when approached as a business, is highly profitable. Once young people see it as innovative and rewarding, they will embrace it as a career path,” he added.
Ojo called for the modernisation of farming through mechanisation, ICT solutions, and investment in agripreneurship, stressing that Nigeria must take advantage of its 35 million hectares of uncultivated land.
He highlighted the need for government and private sector collaboration to provide affordable credit, targeted subsidies, structured training, and secure land rights. He further underscored that addressing insecurity is critical to sustainable progress.
“The issue of insecurity must be addressed decisively; otherwise, large tracts of arable land will remain uncultivated,” he warned.
Ojo concluded that with strategic policies, stronger institutions, and youth-driven innovation, Nigeria could significantly reduce its dependence on imports and position agriculture as a key driver of economic growth.
