Ibadan, Nigeria — September 30, 2024.

As Nigeria celebrates 64 years of independence, Paschal Nnaemeka, a leading agricultural expert and food security advocate, has delivered a powerful message, urging the country to refocus on its agricultural sector to address pressing food security concerns.

In his Independence Day message, Nnaemeka reflected on Nigeria’s agricultural potential and the challenges it faces. “Nigeria was once a powerhouse in agriculture, known for exporting crops like cocoa, palm oil, and groundnuts,” he said. “But over time, we shifted focus to oil, and agriculture, which should be the backbone of our economy, has been left behind. Today, we import staples like rice and wheat, putting our food security at risk.”

Nnaemeka stressed that this over-reliance on food imports exposes the country to global market fluctuations and crises. He cited recent disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine as examples of how global events can impact Nigeria’s food supply.

“Our dependence on imported food is not sustainable,” he emphasized. “We need to invest in our local farmers, improve farming methods through mechanization and technology, and ensure our agricultural policies support long-term growth. It’s time to focus on what we can grow right here in Nigeria.”

Nnaemeka also called for more support for smallholder farmers, who make up a large part of the agricultural workforce. “These farmers are the backbone of our food system, yet they lack access to modern equipment, quality seeds, and proper funding. If we empower them, we can transform our food production capacity.”

He urged the government and private sector to collaborate on initiatives that will not only boost food production but also improve distribution, storage, and market access, especially for rural communities.

As the country reflects on 64 years of independence, Nnaemeka’s message is clear: “We have the land, we have the people, and we have the knowledge. It’s time to take action. Food security is not just about feeding ourselves today; it’s about ensuring a stable, healthy future for generations to come.”

In closing, Nnaemeka called on Nigerians to see agriculture as a solution to many of the country’s challenges, from unemployment to poverty. “Agriculture can transform lives, boost our economy, and put Nigeria back on the map as a global leader in food production. On this Independence Day, let’s commit to building a food-secure Nigeria.”