By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo

Economic experts have said the insufficient investment in the agricultural sector is limiting productivity and hampering efforts to improve food security in the country.

They explained that poverty and social inequality exacerbate food insecurity by restricting access to resources and opportunities.

In separate interviews with Weekend Hope, the experts noted that corruption and poor governance continue to impede development efforts and negatively impact the allocation of resources for food security initiatives.

A Professor of Economics at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Prof. Tawio Owoeye, noted that Nigeria’s rapidly growing population is putting additional pressure on available food resources, thereby making it more difficult to achieve food security for all.

He said, “Addressing Nigeria’s food insecurity requires a multifaceted approach. It involves empowering smallholder farmers with modern tools and resources, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and improving post-harvest handling and storage.

“Additionally, diversifying food sources, reducing food waste, and strengthening social protection programmes are crucial steps.”

Owoeye stressed that smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s agriculture, need access to modern equipment, improved seeds and fertilisers, as well as adequate training and extension services.

An economic expert, Dr Emmanuel Adenegan, said the link between food insecurity and overall insecurity in Nigeria is undeniable, as widespread insecurity, including banditry, terrorism and kidnapping, directly disrupts agricultural production and supply chains, resulting in food shortages and skyrocketing prices.

“This means that the lack of security in farming areas, coupled with the inability to transport crops safely, significantly contributes to the problem of food insecurity.

“Banditry and other forms of insecurity have forced many farmers to abandon their farms or drastically reduce their agricultural activities, thereby leading to a drop in food production.

“Even when food is produced, insecurity makes it difficult to transport crops to processing centres or markets, leading to spoilage and increased prices for consumers,” he added.

Adenegan further stated that food insecurity disproportionately affects vulnerable populations who rely heavily on agriculture for their livelihood and sustenance.

“In essence, the absence of security creates a vicious cycle where food cannot be produced, transported, or distributed effectively, ultimately resulting in widespread food insecurity,” he said.

The experts noted that food insecurity in Nigeria is a multifaceted issue, driven by a combination of factors such as economic hardship, climate change, conflict, and inadequate agricultural infrastructure.

They explained that rising food prices, worsened by high inflation and unfavourable government policies, continue to strain household budgets and reduce access to adequate nutrition.

“Fostering innovation in agriculture, such as developing new crop varieties and deploying technology to enhance efficiency, can increase productivity and resilience.

“Implementing consistent and effective policies that support sustainable agriculture, reduce trade barriers, and address poverty and inequality are crucial.

“Raising public awareness about food insecurity, promoting healthy eating habits, and educating communities on sustainable agricultural practices can also contribute to long-term solutions,” the experts added.