Editorial: Using Agric Value Chains for Economic Growth

Our crave to be a food secured nation will be in vain except will passionately deplore the value chains Agricutural model into driving the sector in an holistic manner for every economic crops and livestock productivity.

Far back in the 60s when our policies had been tilted more to food production rather than total proactive value chains productivity system where more people would have been gainfully employed for economic earnings and enhanced national food security growth.

Non appropriate policies towards driving food processing and productivity have no doubt increased our import bill for food running to billions of Naira in order to augment the shortfall occasioned by wastages due to lack of processing.

Our effort to ensuring food security will be in vain until we begin to seriously inject value chains food productivity into our drive towards a secured nation in terms of food sustainable productivity.

Today, as Nigeria grapples with food insecurity and unemployment, revitalizing the agricultural value chains presents an opportunity for us to reclaim our place of pride in the global food value chains system.

Agricultural value chains encompass the full spectrum of activities involved in producing, processing, and distribution of food products with easy affordability, availability and accessibility. This includes everything from farming and harvesting to processing, packaging, and marketing. Each segment of the chain presents unique opportunities for job creation, innovation, and economic empowerment. By strengthening these value chains, Nigeria can increase agricultural productivity with enhance food security.

The first step in revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector is to embrace innovation. This includes the adoption of modern farming techniques, improved seed varieties, and precision agriculture. Also investing in research and development that can increase yield and harvest with seeds that have resilience to pests and climate change challenges. Furthermore, integrating technology into farming such as using drones for monitoring crops or mobile apps for market access can revolutionize our farmers' operation into more productivity.

Agriculture is a labor-intensive industry, and enhancing the value chains can generate substantial employment opportunities, and by investing in agro-processing facilities, Nigeria can create jobs not only on farms but also in food processing, packaging, and distribution industry. Also the transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture can absorb the growing youths population into meaningful employment, reducing the alarming rates of unemployment.

For value chain productivity to be effective, robust policy frameworks and increased investment in agriculture are essential. The government must create an enabling environment by implementing policies that encourage investment in agriculture, facilitate access to credit, and provide incentives for agro-processing industries. Partnerships between the public and private sectors can drive innovation and funding, while also creating pathways for knowledge sharing and technology transfer.

Additionally, infrastructural improvements such as better roads, reliable electricity, and storage facilities are vital for reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring that produce reach markets in good condition. Investment in rural infrastructure can dramatically enhance the efficiency of agricultural value chains.