Nigeria is currently experiencing significant economic challenges. Food prices are soaring, fuel costs are climbing, inflation is skyrocketing, and the Naira is weakening against the dollar. This has led to widespread hunger and hardship across the nation. Because of this many Nigerians have turned to agriculture to survive. Those who detest farming have no choice and are loving the experience. little to no wonder how agriculture is still a valuable means to survival especially at this time in Nigeria. 

If you travel across the country at the moment, you will evidently see farming activities going on. Unlike before people are planting by the road side, the plots of land they bought and where not ready to build, their backyards. I mean the hunger really inspired a lot of Nigerians. is a blessing in disguise i guess?

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, is no stranger to economic turbulence. However, the current situation is particularly severe. Here are some key factors contributing to the hardship:

As of mid-2024, Nigeria’s inflation rate has surged to over 22%, the highest in nearly two decades. This has drastically reduced the purchasing power of Nigerians.

The cost of basic food items has increased by more than 40% in the last year. Staples like rice, beans, and yams are becoming unaffordable for many families.

Current Food Prices in Nigeria 2024 

The following table provides a snapshot of current food prices in Nigeria as of August 2024:

The removal of fuel subsidies has led to a steep increase in fuel prices, further straining household budgets and affecting transportation costs. The naira has weakened significantly against the dollar, making imports more expensive and exacerbating inflation.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the price of a 50kg bag of rice has risen from ₦19,000 in 2023 to ₦80,000 in 2024. The Central Bank of Nigeria reports that the naira has depreciated by over 60% against the dollar in the past year. Trading at ₦1600 per dollar ($). Fuel prices have increased from ₦450 per liter to ₦1200 per liter since the removal of subsidies.

Faced with these economic challenges, many Nigerians are turning to agriculture as a means of survival . Families in an effort to feed are taking every opportunity to cultivate every bit of food crop they can afford. Notably, Nigeria is richly blessed with land and mineral resources. The country that has a rich history in farming. Here’s why agriculture is becoming a popular choice:

1. Food Security:With food prices escalating, growing one’s own food has become a viable solution to ensure food security and reduce dependency on market prices.
2. Economic Opportunity:Agriculture presents a sustainable means of livelihood. Many have turned to crop farming, poultry, and fish farming as alternative sources of income.

Nigeria has always been an agricultural nation. Before the oil boom, agriculture was the mainstay of the economy, providing employment and income for the majority of the population. Crops like cocoa, groundnuts, palm oil, and rubber were major export commodities. The recent economic hardship has reminded many of the importance of agriculture. Interestingly, the current wave of new farmers includes individuals who previously detested farming. Professionals, urban dwellers, and even retirees are now venturing into agriculture. 

Why are Nigerians turning to farming? 

The reasons are clear:

• Growing their own food ensures that families have enough to eat despite rising food prices.
• Selling surplus produce provides an additional income stream.
• Farming offers a more sustainable way of life, with many embracing organic and environmentally friendly practices.

Let’s take a look at some success stories that highlight how agriculture is changing lives in Nigeria.

Jane, a former banker in Lagos, lost her job due to the economic downturn. With limited options, she moved back to her hometown in Ogun State and started a small poultry farm. Today, her farm supplies eggs and chickens to several local markets, and she has become a successful entrepreneur.

Ade, an IT professional in Abuja, started a rooftop garden during the COVID-19 lockdown. What began as a hobby has turned into a profitable venture. Ade now grows vegetables and herbs, which he sells to restaurants and supermarkets in the city.

In Kaduna State, a community farming initiative has brought together over 100 families to cultivate a large piece of land. This cooperative effort has not only ensured food security for the participants but also created a sense of community and shared purpose. The government and various NGOs are playing crucial roles in supporting the agricultural sector. Here are some key initiatives:

• Anchor Borrowers’ Program: Launched by the Central Bank of Nigeria, this program provides loans to smallholder farmers to boost agricultural productivity.
• National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS): This body offers training and support to farmers to improve their farming techniques and yields.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Farmers

If you’re considering venturing into agriculture, here are some practical tips to get started:

1. Begin with a manageable size of land and gradually expand as you gain experience and resources. Starting small allows you to learn and adapt without taking on too much risk.
2. Take advantage of the numerous agricultural training programs and resources available. Learning modern farming techniques and best practices will increase your chances of success.
3. Growing a variety of crops can mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations and climate change. Diversification ensures a steady income and enhances food security.