-FCT Abuja.

The rising cost of food in Nigeria is a pressing concern that demands immediate and strategic action. As an agricultural expert and advocate for food security, I believe the Federal Government must take decisive steps to address inefficiencies in the agricultural value chain and make food more affordable for all Nigerians.

One critical area to focus on is improving agricultural productivity. Farmers need access to modern farming tools, high-quality seeds, and climate-resilient practices to increase yields. Also, investments in irrigation systems will reduce the dependence on unpredictable rainfall, enabling consistent food production throughout the year.

Another priority is addressing post-harvest losses, which significantly drive up food prices. Nigeria needs more cold storage facilities, processing plants, and efficient transportation networks to ensure that food gets to markets before it spoils. Improving rural roads will not only connect farmers to urban markets but also reduce transportation costs, making food more affordable.

The affordability of farming inputs like fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds must be addressed through subsidies and better access to agricultural loans. Empowering smallholder farmers, who are the backbone of Nigeria’s food system, is key to increasing food supply and stabilizing prices.

Climate resilience is also essential. The Federal Government must support the adoption of drought-tolerant crop varieties, promote agroforestry, and train farmers on sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term productivity despite environmental challenges.

The private sector has a huge role to play. Public-private partnerships can drive investments in agro-processing, storage infrastructure, and innovative agritech solutions. These partnerships will not only reduce food wastage but also create jobs and improve the overall efficiency of the agricultural sector.

Market regulation is equally important. The government must prevent hoarding and artificial price hikes while ensuring that local markets operate efficiently. Encouraging intra-regional trade within West Africa will also allow Nigeria to tap into regional food surpluses to mitigate shortages.

Nigeria has the potential to feed itself and even become a regional food hub. What is needed is a coordinated and well-implemented strategy to address the underlying challenges of the agricultural sector. I am ready to collaborate with the Federal Government to bring these solutions to life, ensuring affordable food for every Nigerian and building a resilient food system for the future.