According to Punch, Dr. Philip Olanrewaju Eniola, an agricultural expert and Executive Rector of the Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, highlights several critical factors contributing to Nigeria's food crisis. In his words, "The conflicts between farmers and herders, worsened by water scarcity and the invasive Hyptis suaveolens plant, are major issues. Corruption also hampers effective resource allocation in agriculture. We need to scientifically manage the invasive plant and shift to intensive cattle-rearing systems to reduce conflicts."
Regarding solutions, Eniola states, "To tackle shortages of tomatoes and peppers, we should support greenhouse farming. There's significant underused arable land in Oke-Ogun that could benefit from investments in processing facilities, especially for crops like rice. Encouraging local production and developing processing industries for crops such as cashews can create jobs and boost our food security."
"In terms of policy," Eniola emphasizes, "We must decentralize agricultural funding to ensure it reaches rural farmers. Supporting cattle farmers will reduce our dependence on imports. Implementing state police could enhance farm security. While removing petrol subsidies is a positive move in the long run, immediate action is needed to stabilize fuel supply and food prices."
"Technology plays a crucial role," Eniola adds. "Modern machinery can cut labor costs and increase efficiency in agriculture. We need to empower agricultural extension agents to train farmers in sustainable practices. Improving agricultural education and practical training will better equip students for farming challenges. By making agriculture more appealing and less strenuous for youth and women and adopting smart climate farming practices, we can strengthen the agricultural sector significantly."