The Secretary-General of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Babafemi Oke, has said Nigeria’s renewed focus on agriculture is largely a reaction to economic pressure rather than a deliberate, long-term national strategy.
Speaking on Sabenko, a public affairs programme on Eagle FM, Oke explained that the country’s gradual return to farming followed declining crude oil revenues, rather than a structured policy aimed at food security and sustainability.
Oke noted that Nigeria was historically an agrarian nation before the discovery of oil shifted national priorities away from farming.
“We are returning to agriculture because oil is no longer yielding as before. It is more of necessity than planning,” he said.
He added that the symbolism of Nigeria’s green-white-green flag reflects agriculture’s foundational role, a legacy he believes was neglected during the oil boom years.
The AFAN scribe highlighted disparities in agricultural participation, noting that northern Nigeria has maintained stronger engagement due to consistent support, while the South-West is only recently witnessing improvement.
He attributed the shift to growing economic realities and increased awareness, though he stressed that youth participation remains a major concern.
“Many young graduates still prefer white-collar jobs, but the reality is gradually changing,” he noted.
Oke emphasised that women and grassroots farmers currently drive agricultural productivity, particularly in the South-West.
He called for targeted policies to support women farmers through improved access to funding, inputs, and markets.
“Women in agriculture are doing remarkable work and deserve greater institutional support,” he said.
On land availability, Oke identified access as a key challenge but said AFAN has been working with governments and traditional institutions to secure unused land for farming.
He explained that such collaborations have enabled the development of cluster farming systems in some states.
Oke acknowledged efforts by the Federal Government, particularly under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to support farmers through subsidies and funding initiatives.
He cited interventions through the Nigeria Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), which have improved access to fertilisers and reduced production costs.
Addressing food inflation, Oke linked rising prices to high fuel costs and transportation challenges.
When logistics become expensive, food prices must go up,” he explained.
He noted that the cost of basic food items, including eggs, has reached unprecedented levels due to these pressures.
Oke concluded by urging the government to move beyond reactive measures and adopt a comprehensive, long-term agricultural strategy focused on sustainability, youth inclusion, and food security.
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