Agriculture in Nigeria: Why the South Should Rival the North in Farming

Agriculture has long been the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing to the nation’s GDP.

Historically, the northern region has been the agricultural hub, leveraging its vast lands and favorable climate.

However, the southern part of Nigeria, with its diverse ecosystems and climates, holds untapped potential that could significantly contribute to the country’s agricultural output and economic development.

This article is an attempt to explain why the South should rival the North in farming, exploring geographical advantages, economic impacts, challenges, and the path forward for a more diversified and robust agricultural sector.

The Current State of Agriculture in Nigeria

Nigeria’s agricultural sector is a critical component of the nation’s economy, contributing approximately 24% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2021, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

With over 70% of the population engaged in agricultural activities, this sector is pivotal for employment generation, food security, and poverty alleviation.

However, despite its potential, the sector faces numerous challenges including limited access to modern technology, inadequate infrastructure, and climate change impacts.

In recent years, the Nigerian government has launched various initiatives to revitalize the agriculture sector.

Programs like the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) and the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) aim to enhance productivity, reduce import dependency, and boost smallholder farmers’ incomes.

These efforts have led to a notable increase in the production of staple crops such as rice, maize, and cassava.

For instance, rice production surged from 5.4 million metric tons in 2015 to 9 million metric tons in 2020, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Despite these advancements, Nigeria’s agriculture sector still grapples with challenges like inadequate storage facilities, post-harvest losses, and limited access to finance.

To sustain and further develop this sector, it is imperative to invest in modern farming techniques, improve rural infrastructure, and strengthen the value chain from farm to market.

By addressing these issues, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its agriculture sector, ensuring food security, and driving economic growth.

Northern Nigeria’s Agricultural Landscape: Overview

Northern Nigeria stands as a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural sector, renowned for its expansive arable land and a climate that favors farming.

This region excels in the large-scale production of grains such as millet, sorghum, and maize, which are staple foods for millions of Nigerians.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Northern Nigeria contributes over 65% of the country’s total grain production, highlighting its significance in ensuring food security.

Livestock farming is another vital aspect of Northern Nigeria’s agriculture, with the region being a major hub for cattle, sheep, and goats.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that as of 2020, the region accounted for approximately 60% of Nigeria’s livestock population.

This not only supports the livelihoods of millions of households but also contributes significantly to the nation’s economy through the production of meat, dairy, and leather goods.

Furthermore, Northern Nigeria is a key player in the country’s cotton industry, an essential crop for the textile sector.

The region’s favorable climate and vast land resources have made it an ideal location for cotton cultivation.

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) indicate that the region produces over 70% of the country’s cotton, which is crucial for boosting the textile industry and creating employment opportunities.

Southern Nigeria’s Agricultural Landscape: Overview

Southern Nigeria’s agriculture, with its tropical climate, is perfectly suited for the cultivation of crops like cocoa, palm oil, and rubber.

These cash crops play a significant role in the region’s economy and are major export commodities. For instance, Nigeria is one of the world’s top cocoa producers, with the majority of its cocoa farms located in the southern states.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), cocoa exports contributed over $800 million to the Nigerian economy in 2020.

Palm oil production is another agricultural stronghold in the south, with Nigeria ranking as the fifth-largest producer globally.

The region’s abundant rainfall and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for oil palm plantations. However, despite its potential, the sector faces challenges such as aging trees and limited access to modern processing facilities.

As a result, there is a significant gap between the current production levels and the achievable output.

Rubber cultivation is also prominent in the south, with Nigeria being one of the leading producers in Africa.

The rubber industry, primarily located in states like Edo and Delta, plays a crucial role in the manufacturing sector, supplying raw materials for products like tires and footwear.

Despite the rich agricultural potential, Southern Nigeria’s focus on oil and services has led to an underutilization of its farming capabilities.

The region’s economy is heavily reliant on the oil sector, which has overshadowed the importance of agriculture.

To maximize the agricultural potential, there is a need for a shift in focus, increased investment in modern farming techniques, and the development of infrastructure to support the sector’s growth.

Challenges Facing Southern Agriculture: Key Issues to Address

Southern Nigeria’s agriculture sector, despite its potential, faces several challenges that hinder its growth and productivity. Here’s a list of the major obstacles:

1. Limited Access to Modern Technology: Many farmers in the South still rely on traditional farming methods. This limits their efficiency and output.
2. Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate roads, storage facilities, and irrigation systems hamper the transportation and preservation of agricultural products.
3. Land Degradation: Soil erosion, deforestation, and overuse of chemicals have led to a decline in soil fertility, affecting crop yields.
4. Climate Change: The region is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, which disrupt farming activities.
5. Pests and Diseases: Outbreaks of pests and plant diseases can cause significant crop losses, impacting farmers’ livelihoods.
6. Access to Finance: Many farmers struggle to secure loans or investments, limiting their ability to expand or improve their operations.
7. Dependence on Rainfed Agriculture: The majority of farming in the south is rain-dependent, making it susceptible to seasonal variations and climate change.
8. Competition from Imports: The influx of cheaper imported agricultural products has made it difficult for local farmers to compete in the market.

Why Southern Nigeria Must Harness Its Agricultural Potential: National Economic Benefits

1. Reducing Oil Dependency: Expanding agriculture lessens reliance on oil, promoting economic stability.
2. Boosting Food Security: Increased agricultural production ensures a steady food supply.
3. Diversifying the Economy: A thriving agricultural sector adds variety to the economic landscape.
4. Stimulating Local Economies: Revitalized agriculture drives growth in surrounding businesses.
5. Creating Employment: Agricultural expansion generates numerous job opportunities.
6. Alleviating Poverty: Enhanced agricultural activity lifts communities out of poverty.

Agriculture’s role in Nigeria’s economic and social development cannot be overstated. While the North has traditionally led in this sector, it’s time for the South to rise and realize its full potential.

This not only diversifies the economy but also ensures food security, economic resilience, and sustainable development.

The journey towards a more balanced agricultural sector requires collective efforts from the government, private sector, and local communities, embracing innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.