The All Farmers Association of Nigeria has highlighted the challenges faced by farmers in producing and selling at lower prices, citing the need for a multifaceted approach to address food insecurity.According to Kabir Ibrahim, President of the association, the current state of food production is hindered by several factors, including unaffordable inputs, insecurity, and poor regional planning. In an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program, Ibrahim emphasized that the cost of inputs, such as fertilizers, has become prohibitively expensive, with prices exceeding 50,000 naira. This, combined with the prevailing insecurity and low productivity, makes it difficult for farmers to produce and sell at lower prices.
The association’s president warned that the reluctance of farmers to return to their fields, particularly those producing rice and maize, could exacerbate food inflation. To mitigate this, Ibrahim urged authorities to provide security for farmers, subsidize inputs, and explore innovative measures to ease the movement of produce. He suggested dedicating vehicles for food transportation, which could be equipped with sirens and given priority lanes to facilitate swift movement.
The AFAN president’s comments come amidst concerns over food insecurity and inflation in Nigeria. The association’s concerns underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector. By providing support to farmers and addressing the underlying issues affecting productivity, the government can help to stabilize food prices and ensure a steady supply of produce to meet the country’s needs. Ultimately, a sustained effort to enhance agricultural productivity and accessibility is crucial to winning the battle against food insecurity.
