The Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has called for consistent and well-planned investment in the agricultural industry to bridge Nigeria’s productivity gaps, especially in rice production.
He made this known during a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Agricultural Production and Services on Monday.
The session reviewed three significant bills aimed at reforming Nigeria’s agricultural framework to make it more effective and sustainable.
The proposed legislations include:
Sen. Abdullahi expressed concern that Nigeria’s productivity levels in key crops such as rice and cassava remain far below potential.
“The average rice yield in Nigeria stands between 4.5 and 5 tonnes per hectare, while the best-performing farmers achieve around 6 tonnes,” he said.
“In contrast, countries with advanced production systems record between 9 and 12 tonnes. If we can double our output to 7 or 8 tonnes through adequate funding and research, we can meet our national demand of 22 million metric tonnes and close the current deficit.”
He urged lawmakers to focus on strengthening existing agricultural research institutions rather than creating new ones, stressing that many have become “employment centres instead of productivity hubs.”
Citing cassava as another case, Abdullahi noted that although Nigeria has remained the world’s largest producer for three decades, productivity remains low.
“Our average cassava yield is about 11 tonnes per hectare, but research shows it can reach 49 tonnes”.
“Even doubling that would raise national output from 60 million to 120 million metric tonnes, a massive boost to the economy,” he added.
The Minister confirmed that the Ministry and its agencies are largely in agreement with the objectives of the proposed bills but called for fine-tuning to align them with existing laws and administrative frameworks.
“In particular, we must ensure that ongoing federal programmes are harmonised with the goals of the National Agricultural Development Fund.
Some administrative aspects still need further discussion, but the principles are sound,” he said.
Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Bello Kaoje, reaffirmed that agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and a key driver of inclusive growth.
“To achieve food security and global competitiveness, we need effective policies backed by strong legislation,” Kaoje stated.
“This hearing provides a platform for policymakers, farmers, researchers, investors, and partners to share their perspectives and refine the bills to make them practical and impactful.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, represented by Hon. Ayokunle Isiaka, described the proposed legislation as “a comprehensive roadmap for achieving food security and national prosperity.”
“These bills are not just pieces of legislation; they are blueprints for building a self-reliant and food-secure Nigeria,” he said.
“They align perfectly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the declaration of a State of Emergency on Food Security.”
He called on all stakeholders to participate actively in shaping a resilient agricultural system.
“Let us work together to create a sector that drives the economy, guarantees food security, and uplifts every Nigerian,” he concluded.
Source: Independent News
Image Credit: Voice of Nigeria
