While Nigerians continue to battle hunger and high food prices, experts say the country can learn valuable lessons from Ethiopia’s agricultural transformation. Ethiopia has successfully moved from being a net importer of grains to becoming an exporter, recording major gains in wheat and soybean production. This achievement has brought the East African country closer to food self-sufficiency and positioned it as a growing supplier to neighbouring countries and global markets, including China.
Ethiopia’s success story is built on strategic investment in agricultural research and development. Over the years, the government partnered with research institutions and local farmers to improve seed varieties and farming techniques. These efforts have now made it possible for Ethiopia to not only feed its population but also export surplus grains. Experts believe that with proper planning and support, Nigeria can achieve the same results or even more.
Despite having over 34 million hectares of arable land and a population of farmers spread across all regions, Nigeria is still struggling to meet its local food demand. The country remains heavily dependent on food imports, particularly wheat and rice, which contributes to the worsening food crisis. This over-reliance on imports has exposed Nigerians to food inflation and rising insecurity.
In recent years, the situation has become more difficult. Reforms introduced in 2023, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the floatation of the naira, have increased the cost of transportation, farm inputs, and food items across the country. A recent Reuters report warned that no fewer than 33 million Nigerians were at risk of food insecurity by August 2024 due to rising inflation, insecurity, floods, and harsh economic conditions. A Financial Times report also highlighted cases of food riots, looting of warehouses, and public unrest, showing the deep frustration among the masses.
Experts say Nigeria needs to take urgent steps to change the direction. One of the key lessons from Ethiopia’s experience is the importance of sustained investment in agricultural innovation. This includes funding crop research, developing improved seed varieties, and introducing modern farming practices. Additionally, Nigeria must give farmers better access to essential inputs such as fertilizers, quality seeds, soft loans, storage facilities, and land ownership rights.
Agricultural extension services must also be improved to ensure rural farmers benefit from new technologies and farming methods. Security in farming communities is another big issue. Many farmers in northern and central Nigeria have abandoned their lands due to attacks by bandits and insurgents. Without addressing insecurity, agricultural productivity will continue to drop.
Mechanising agriculture is also important. Nigeria needs to increase access to tractors and irrigation systems, especially in rural areas. Government and private investors should build more silos and warehouses to reduce post-harvest losses and preserve food stocks. This will not only boost food availability but also help stabilise prices during shortages.
To support the most vulnerable during these difficult times, experts recommend expanding cash transfer programmes and providing targeted subsidies for smallholder farmers. These safety nets are important to help poor households survive while the country works on longer-term reforms.
While Nigeria continues to battle high food prices and poverty, Ethiopia’s grain success stands as a clear example of what is possible with the right commitment. For Nigeria to become food secure, there must be strong political will, sustained public and private investment in the agricultural sector, and clear policies that empower farmers.
Nigeria’s journey from food scarcity to surplus will not be automatic. But with a focus on agricultural development, food security, and inclusive policies, the country can reduce its dependence on imports and build a stable, self-reliant food system for future generations.
