Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector Stalled By Insecurity, Says Olawepo-Hashim

Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector Stalled By Insecurity, Says Olawepo-Hashim

Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a prominent politician and former presidential candidate, addressed the 27th annual convention and 26th annual lecture series of the Alumni Association of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta…Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector Stalled By Insecurity, Says Olawepo-Hashim

(FUNAAB), Ogun State. He stressed that while Nigeria’s agricultural sector offers vast opportunities, it faces significant hurdles, including rising insecurity and climate change.

Between 2022 and 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that nearly half a million farmers were displaced, resulting in losses exceeding N2 trillion. In the Middle Belt region, there was a substantial decline in farming activities, with a reduction of over 70%, leading to shortages of key crops such as maize and yam.

Olawepo-Hashim pointed out that inadequate infrastructure and poor market access further exacerbate these challenges. The African Development Bank (AFDB) estimates post-harvest losses in Nigeria to exceed $9 billion annually due to poor transportation and storage facilities.

Highlighting the role of alumni associations, he emphasized their potential in fostering development through networking, strategic investments, and support for alma maters. However, he noted that only a minority of alumni engage in agribusiness, despite its critical role in Nigeria’s economy, with only 15% involved in food-related industries.

This pressing issue requires urgent attention to ensure the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

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