Throughout President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, the most impactful project was agriculture, spearheaded by Dr. Femi Adesina. Despite a strong focus on rice production, the lack of a robust monitoring and evaluation plan led to its downfall. While it remains a notable achievement, it ultimately did not achieve a breakthrough.
Subsequent projects were largely political gestures lacking appropriation plans and implementation, resulting in zero outcomes. President Buhari’s rice revolution had good intentions but was similarly derailed by poor monitoring and evaluation. The ban on rice importation led to a monopoly by local farmers, who exploited the situation without delivering significant relief to the public.
President Tinubu’s administration brings hope with its detailed agricultural plan, incorporating local, state, and organizational actors. However, a closer look reveals many critical issues that could undermine its success.
Firstly, the government’s policy on agricultural equipment needs scrutiny. While there are provisions for purchasing tractors, graders, planters, and harvesters, there is no clear maintenance plan. Who will handle the maintenance – the supplier or manufacturer? Is there a plan to train local engineers across states? Additionally, from whom are we purchasing this equipment?
The absence of foundries and metal fabricating companies capable of producing spare parts is another concern. Without these facilities, equipment may become scrap within two years. We need medium furnaces to fabricate and replicate prototypes to ensure sustainability.
Another crucial area is the production of agro-chemicals. Does the government know the capabilities and limitations of local companies? Has there been an effort to relocate these companies closer to rural farms? Ensuring a steady supply of fertilizers and agro-chemicals without favoritism is essential.
Security issues, including herdsmen grazing on farms and kidnappers, must be addressed. Designated farming areas need clear implementation. Local governments and states should play active roles in protecting farmers. My personal experience of losing five acres of cassava to cattle grazing, with no recourse, highlights the need for effective measures.
Nigeria has 323 dams, yet many are underutilized for agriculture. How are the lands around these dams allocated, and who controls them? States must have plans for their utilization. For instance, Osun State has four dams, none of which are productive. Leasing these lands to existing farmers could be a solution, but it requires clear policy direction.
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture, in my opinion, is redundant. The centralized approach in Abuja lacks the regional specificity needed. A regionalized Ministry of Agriculture would better understand local agricultural needs, allowing for tailored policies and support. For example, the Southwest’s rice belt, once known for Igbimo and Ofada rice, has diminished. How can Abuja revive this?
Finally, the Land Use Act needs revision to favor indigenous farmers. The rampant conversion of farmland into housing estates, particularly in areas like Ofada, is alarming. We must protect agricultural zones to ensure food security.
In summary, while President Tinubu’s agricultural plans are promising, addressing these critical issues is essential for their success. Without proper equipment maintenance, local production of agro-chemicals, security for farmers, effective utilization of dams, regionalized agricultural policies, and protection of farmland, agricultural projects are likely to fail.
Oni Gbolabo is an educationist, Public Affairs Analyst and Doctor of Philosophy – PhD Education (Community Development and Social Work)
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