With over 33.1 million Nigerians at risk of food insecurity by August 2025, the Federal Government has urged academic institutions to convert their vast, unused lands into thriving food production hubs.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Food Security, Barrister Yejide Ogundipe, made this appeal during a national meeting of agricultural research institutes, emphasizing that Nigeria can no longer rely on “potential” alone while millions go hungry.
“Agriculture is key to our economy, yet we struggle to feed ourselves. Our institutions must shift from theory to practice—engaging students and local youths in modern farming to produce food, drive innovation, and create a new generation of skilled agricultural practitioners,” Ogundipe stated.
She highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to food security, citing strategic moves such as the 2023 emergency declaration, renaming the Agriculture Ministry to focus on food security, and creating a presidential office dedicated to tackling hunger.
However, challenges like outdated farming techniques, insecurity, and climate change persist, along with institutional neglect. Colleges of Agriculture have been particularly sidelined, lacking access to funding and support enjoyed by universities and polytechnics.
Stakeholders at the meeting called for increased investment, better policies, and private-sector collaboration to revitalize agricultural education and ensure food security for all Nigerians.
“Food security is not just a policy—it’s a national survival issue,” Ogundipe stressed. “We must act now.”
