Minister Calls For Sustained Agricultural Funding To Achieve Food Security

In a bid to boost agricultural productivity and close yield gaps, Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, says Nigeria must sustain consistent funding for key crops such as rice and cassava.

Abdullahi stated this during a public hearing on three agricultural reform bills organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Agricultural Production and Services.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the National Agricultural Development Fund Act, establish a National Farm Settlements Agency, and create a National Rice Production, Processing and Research Institute in Kebbi State.

According to the minister Nigeria’s average rice yield remains between 4.5 and 5 tonnes per hectare, well below the global potential of 9 to 12 tonnes.

“If we focus on funding processes that increase yield and farmers reach 7 to 8 tonnes per hectare, Nigeria’s current 2 million metric tonne rice deficit can be closed,” Abdullahi said.

He noted that while Nigeria has led global cassava production for three decades, yields remain low at about 11 tonnes per hectare, compared to the 49 tonnes achievable through research.

“If farmers can double or triple that output, it would inject massive value into the economy,” he said.

Abdullahi urged lawmakers to strengthen existing agricultural institutions rather than multiply agencies, warning that many have become “employment centres” rather than research-driven organizations.

He added that the ministry supports most provisions in the proposed bills but called for adjustments to align them with existing laws and administrative frameworks.

Chairman Committee Agricultural Production and Services Bello Kaoje, said agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and a reliable path to inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

“Achieving food security requires sound policies supported by effective legislation,” Kaoje said.

Speaker of the House Dr Abbas Tajudeen, represented by Ayokunle Isiaka, described the bills as blueprints for a more secure and self-reliant Nigeria.
“They align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the declaration of a State of Emergency on Food Security,” Abbas said.

“Together, we can build a resilient agricultural sector that drives prosperity.”

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji