Nigeria is at a critical juncture in its food system, threatened by climate change, insecurity, food waste, and reliance on imports. The country's growing population faces difficulties accessing food despite substantial domestic production. A presentation on Nigeria's food system highlights that the challenge extends beyond production, questioning whether agricultural policies are prepared for unpredictable weather and growing demand.
The country's food challenge is multifaceted, with approximately 40% of locally produced food wasted and ₦1.18 trillion spent on food imports. This contradiction in the food system necessitates a re-evaluation of agricultural policies. Climate change is altering rainfall patterns, increasing drought and erosion, and making farming unpredictable.
The agricultural sector is entering a new phase, focusing on building a resilient food system capable of withstanding environmental, economic, and demographic pressures. The debate centers on the direction of Nigeria's agricultural transformation, with genetically modified (GM) crops expanding and calls for greater investment in agroecology.
Since 2015, over 25 GM products have been approved, including GM beans, cotton, and Tela maize. Proponents argue that biotechnology is a tool to address agricultural productivity challenges. However, campaigners have raised concerns about the long-term implications for biodiversity, soil health, and food sovereignty.
Critics of GM agriculture have called for a review of the National Biosafety Management Agency Act, seeking stronger liability provisions to establish accountability in cases of environmental or agricultural damage. The controversy reflects a larger question facing policymakers: what kind of agricultural system should Nigeria build for the future?
The experience of Bt cotton has become part of this discussion, with some farmers questioning whether the GM variety delivered expected productivity gains. Concerns have been raised over soil health and farmers' dependence on commercial seeds and agricultural chemicals.
As Nigeria navigates its food security challenges, stakeholders must consider the implications of different approaches to agricultural development. The country's future food system will depend on the choices made today, balancing the need for productivity with concerns about sustainability and environmental impact.
Key points
- Nigeria's food system is threatened by climate change, insecurity, food waste, and import dependence.
- The country has spent ₦1.18 trillion on food imports and wastes approximately 40% of locally produced food.
- The debate on agricultural transformation centers on the use of genetically modified crops and investment in agroecology.
