In a previous discourse, an attempt was made to put the problems we regularly encounter into perspective.
It is instructive to note that as the problems are numerous so are the solution. These issues will continue on the front burner until adequate attention is given.
Listed below are further interventions that our government at various levels can put to use:
- Provision of Agricultural Equipment
- State and federal governments should provide essential agricultural equipment, including tractors, bulldozers, and farming utensils.
- Introduction of Smaller, Efficient Equipment
- Government officials should source smaller, more efficient farming equipment from countries like China, which can significantly enhance productivity over traditional hoes and cutlasses.
- Modern Farm Settlements
- State governments should establish modern farm settlements in each local government area and engage interested youths to manage these farms.
- Establishment of Marketing Boards
- Governments should create marketing boards to purchase excess produce from farmers, ensuring products are preserved and farmers are financially ready for the next planting season.
- Security agencies, including Police, DSS, NSCDC, Amotekun, and Military Intelligence, should have posts within these settlements to ensure safety.
- Adequate Training for Young Farmers
- Provide thorough training for young farmers through tutelage from institutions like IITA, Federal Agriculture Research Institutes, and other agricultural bodies.
- Encourage these institutions to focus on practical, on-farm training rather than office-based work.
- Appointment and Accountability of Agricultural Managers
- Appoint agricultural managers in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to oversee agricultural programs.
- Managers should be held accountable for their performance and must show tangible results within one year or face termination and prosecution for mismanagement of funds.
- Agricultural timelines: rice (4 months), cassava (9 months), and bananas (1 year) ensure visible progress within 14 months.
- Federal Bureau for Agricultural Inspection
- Establish a Federal Bureau for Agricultural Inspection to supervise the work and performance of state governments and agricultural managers.
- With a committed agricultural revolution, Nigeria can achieve food sufficiency within two years.
Charles Abioro (cabioro@gmail.com; agbantara2023@gmail.com)
Ordinary farmer
Ilaro
