Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening food security situation, arguing that recent agricultural interventions have not translated into improved outcomes for citizens.
Obi's Concerns on Food Security
Obi noted that despite government declarations of emergency on food security and the introduction of large-scale mechanisation programmes, the level of hunger in the country has continued to deteriorate. Nigeria still ranks poorly on global hunger and food insecurity assessments.
He referenced the federal government’s agricultural initiatives, including the rollout of tractors and farming equipment aimed at boosting mechanised farming, but maintained that the impact of these programmes has not been felt at the grassroots where food insecurity remains widespread.
Structural Failures in Agriculture
According to him, Nigeria’s worsening position on global hunger indicators reflects deeper structural failures in policy execution, distribution systems, and investment in real agricultural productivity. He argued that policy announcements alone are not sufficient unless they are backed by measurable improvements in food production, storage, and affordability.
Obi further expressed concern that despite Nigeria’s vast arable land and agricultural potential, particularly in the northern region, the country continues to struggle with food shortages and rising hunger levels.
Insecurity and Poor Implementation
He maintained that insecurity, poor implementation of agricultural programmes, and lack of sustained investment in rural farming communities have continued to undermine national food security efforts.
He also pointed to projections suggesting that millions of Nigerians remain at risk of severe food insecurity, warning that the situation could worsen if urgent structural reforms are not implemented in the agricultural sector.
Call for Sustainable Development
The former Anambra State governor insisted that Nigeria has the capacity to become food-secure if its agricultural resources are properly harnessed through transparent investment, mechanisation, and effective policy execution that directly benefits farmers and consumers.
He reiterated his long-held position that sustainable agricultural development remains key not only to achieving food security but also to job creation and broader economic stability in the country.
