According to Punch, The African Development Bank (AfDB) has revised its economic growth projection for Africa downward from 4.3% to 3.8% in 2024, citing concerns over food security and financial sustainability on the continent. Speaking at the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa retreat in Abuja, AfDB President Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina expressed disappointment with the Nigerian government's plan to import food, stating that it would undermine the country's agricultural policy and depress local food production.
Adesina emphasized that Nigeria cannot rely on food imports to stabilize prices and must instead focus on producing food to keep prices stable, reduce pressure on foreign exchange, and create jobs. He warned that resorting to food imports would destroy the country's agricultural policy and make it dependent on foreign food supplies.
The AfDB president noted that Africa has the potential to feed itself and the world, with 65% of the world's remaining uncultivated arable land. He emphasized the critical role of agriculture in diversifying economies and transforming rural areas, where over 70% of Africa's population resides. Adesina stressed that transforming agriculture is crucial for eliminating poverty in Africa.
The Nigerian government's plan to import food has drawn criticism from farmers, who argue that it would erode the gains made in rice, maize, and wheat production. The move is seen as contradicting the government's earlier position on food security, which emphasized producing what the country eats. Food prices have skyrocketed in Nigeria, pushing millions into poverty and hunger, with an estimated 32 million people expected to face severe hunger and malnutrition this year.
Photo Credit: Google