Transforming Food system in Nigeria: From Smallholder Struggles to Commercial Success
Episode 3: The Path Forward – Embracing Commercialization
The benefits of smallholder farming—local knowledge, labor intensity, diverse cropping systems, and community networks—are undeniable. However, these advantages are not enough to meet national needs. Nigeria must transition to commercial farming to harness economies of scale, better access to technology, and more efficient farming practices.
Commercial farms offer better access to national and international markets, leading to higher incomes for farmers. Increased scale brings investment in infrastructure, such as irrigation, storage facilities, and transportation, benefiting the entire agricultural sector. Moreover, commercialization can spur economic growth by creating jobs and stimulating related industries like processing, marketing, and transportation.
The campaign against commercialization, citing environmental concerns, holds Africa back. Europe, with its smaller population, achieves higher food production and self-sufficiency without halting industrialization. Africa must industrialize its agricultural sector to feed its growing population and foster economic development.
Smallholder farmers can still play a crucial role through clustering and collective efforts. By pooling resources and cultivating larger areas together, smallholders can achieve economies of scale, improved market access, and better access to technology and services. This collective approach can enhance productivity, market access, and resilience to economic shocks and climate variability.
Conclusion
Nigeria cannot rely solely on smallholder farmers. The inefficiencies are glaring, and the need for commercial farming is urgent. By embracing commercialization, Nigeria can ensure food security, economic growth, and national stability. The path forward is clear: we must industrialize our agricultural sector and transform our smallholder farmers into efficient, productive contributors to our nation's prosperity.
Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli
Managing Director/CEO at Infinera Agribusiness Ltd
3 个月The potential for growth through commercial farming is immense. However, it's also crucial to consider how we can support smallholder farmers during this transition. Perhaps a hybrid model that leverages both commercial and smallholder farming could be a sustainable approach? It would be interesting to explore how technology and training can empower smallholders to become more efficient and productive. Thoughts? ????
Managing Director at Papa’s Healthy Foods / Product Producer / Entrepreneur / Commercial livestock breeder
3 个月You have said it all. “We must industrialize our agricultural sector” Vladimir puttin of Russia said that the lands of Africa can feed the whole of Europe. Yet my people don’t see the hidden wealth underneath our feet.
Agricultural Consultant || JA Nigeria volunteer || Undergraduate, Agricultural Extension UNN || Start-up founder Peace Magestic AGRITECH || Innovator || Capacity Builder || Eco-friendly Farmer || Evangelist
3 个月Small holder farmers are not the major problem. The problem lies in the level of illiteracy amongst them. If the government can strengthen the extension arm of agriculture, and provide credit loan facilities for these small scale farmers, I’m confident they can live up to the expectations. This is because, even as it stands now, industrialisation and commercialisation alone, would lead to urban migration and I doubt if that is what we need at the moment. And this form of migration Would greatly retard rural development. The solution is simple; Empower young, innovative and industrious farmers, who would produce from their end, while the government should act as a regulatory body on the prices, subsidising where necessary. #simonUtazi
Professor and Consultant/trainer in Soil Fertility, Organic Agriculture and Agroecology
3 个月Handling farm chemicals without proper protection kits - the usual potential hazard to life of farmers.