Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has announced plans to drastically reduce the country’s reliance on food imports, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Edun stated that Nigeria’s future lies in producing its own food, rather than relying on imports. The government plans to support small-scale farmers through initiatives like the Nigerian Agricultural Growth Scheme, providing critical inputs such as seeds and fertilizers.
This move is part of a broader economic recovery plan, aiming to increase food security and reduce the country’s annual food import bill, currently standing at around $20 billion. The government also seeks to more than double agricultural productivity through improved local seedlings and better farming practices.
Nigeria’s growing population, doubling from 119 million in 1999 to 230 million today, poses a significant challenge to food security. Minister of Budget and National Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, highlighted the surge in demand for infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
By promoting agricultural self-sufficiency, Nigeria aims to achieve economic independence and food security, addressing rising food prices and a struggling agricultural sector.